Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough, but dealing with insurance companies afterward can be just as overwhelming. While insurers may seem helpful at first, their primary goal is to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line. If you’ve been injured in an accident in Houston, it’s important to understand how to navigate the claims process and avoid common pitfalls.
At Hernandez Sunosky LLP, we help accident victims fight for fair compensation and ensure that insurance companies don’t take advantage of them. Here’s what you need to know about dealing with insurers after a crash.
What to Do After an Accident to Strengthen Your Claim
Taking the right steps after a car accident can make a significant difference in how your insurance claim is handled. If you’re able, do the following:
- Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. A police report can serve as crucial evidence for your claim.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals. Collect witness statements and contact information.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to appear. Medical records will link your injuries to the accident.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Most policies require you to report an accident promptly, but you should be cautious about what you say (more on this below).
- Consult an Attorney: Before giving recorded statements or accepting a settlement, speak with a Houston car accident attorney who can protect your rights.
How Insurance Companies Try to Reduce or Deny Claims
Insurance companies may act friendly, but their goal is to pay out as little as possible. Here are some common tactics they use:
- Offering a Quick, Low Settlement: Insurers often make a fast settlement offer in hopes that you’ll accept before realizing the full extent of your injuries and losses. These initial offers are usually far lower than what you deserve.
- Requesting a Recorded Statement: Adjusters may ask you to provide a recorded statement about the accident. They can later use your own words against you to minimize or deny your claim. You are not required to give a recorded statement—especially without legal guidance.
- Disputing Liability: Insurance companies may argue that you were partially or fully responsible for the accident, reducing the amount they have to pay. Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault.
- Downplaying Your Injuries: Insurers may question whether your injuries are as serious as you claim, especially if you delayed medical treatment. They may also try to blame pre-existing conditions rather than the accident.
- Delaying the Claims Process: Some insurance companies intentionally drag out claims, hoping you’ll become frustrated and settle for less than you deserve. They might request excessive paperwork or claim they are still investigating.
Tips for Handling Insurance Companies After an Accident
- Be Careful What You Say: When speaking to an insurance adjuster, stick to the facts. Avoid admitting fault or making statements like, “I’m feeling okay,” as they may be used to downplay your injuries.
- Do Not Accept the First Settlement Offer: Initial offers rarely cover the full cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Always have an attorney review any settlement before accepting.
- Keep Detailed Records: Save all medical bills, repair estimates, lost wage documentation, and correspondence with the insurance company. A well-documented claim strengthens your case.
- Let an Attorney Handle Negotiations: Insurance companies have experienced adjusters and lawyers working to reduce payouts—you should have a skilled advocate on your side as well. A Houston car accident lawyer can negotiate aggressively and ensure you receive fair compensation.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Car Accident?
Depending on the severity of your injuries and damages, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Current and future treatment costs, surgeries, therapy, and rehabilitation
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed at work and loss of future earning potential
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
- Property Damage: Repairs or replacement of your vehicle
- Wrongful Death: If a loved one was fatally injured, their family may seek compensation for funeral costs and loss of companionship
An experienced Houston personal injury attorney can assess your case and determine the full value of your claim.
Why You Need an Attorney to Handle Insurance Companies
Insurance companies know that accident victims are vulnerable after a crash. They rely on people accepting lowball offers or making mistakes that hurt their claims. Having a lawyer levels the playing field.
At Hernandez Sunosky LLP, we handle all communication with insurance companies so you don’t have to. We also gather evidence to bolster your case and get the most favorable outcome, negotiate aggressively to ensure a fair settlement, and even take your case to court if necessary. Don’t let an insurance company take advantage of you. We are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Hernandez Sunosky LLP for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a Houston car accident, dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. At Hernandez Sunosky LLP, we are dedicated to helping accident victims recover the compensation they need to move forward.
Call us today for a free consultation and let us handle the insurance companies while you focus on healing.