Dealing with insurance claims after an accident can be a major hassle. The negotiation process is often complex and overwhelming, especially when you do not have help. While many people wonder whether they can negotiate with an insurance company on their own, it is recommended that you obtain the help of an experienced lawyer. Consult with a York County, PA personal injury attorney to learn more about your rights and legal options today.
Why Do I Need to Submit a Claim?
After being involved in an accident, it is important that you seek compensation for your expenses and damages. Whether you were involved in a car crash, construction site incident, slip and fall, or any other type of accident, collecting compensation is crucial to protect your rights.
If the accident was your fault or circumstantial, you can generally submit a claim with your own insurance. Otherwise, you can file a claim with the at-fault party’s provider. Through an insurance claim you can recover compensation and reimbursement for a variety of costs associated with your accident including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Future costs
While filing a claim is important, it can be a complicated experience.
Can I Negotiate With an Insurance Company Without a Lawyer?
Yes, insurance companies generally do not require you to have a lawyer when settling claims, and actually tend to prefer when you forgo legal representation. If the accident was not that severe and the damages you are seeking compensation for are minor, you may choose to represent yourself. However, just because you are legally allowed to does not mean that you should.
Why Should I Hire a Lawyer During My Insurance Claim?
Insurance companies prefer to handle settlements with the claimant rather than an attorney because an agreement can often be reached more quickly and for less money. Because the average person does not have experience with the law, insurance companies have the upper hand and often take advantage.
It is important to hire a lawyer when negotiating your claim to ensure your rights are protected. Insurance companies have adjusters and legal teams equipped with extensive experience in handling claims and paying out the least amount of compensation possible to keep profits high.
Your lawyer will be able to more accurately assess the value of your claim, navigate the complex legal regulations and jargon, negotiate on your behalf, take the pressure off of you, and ensure you do not accept an unfair settlement offer.
Without a legal professional on your side you may miss an important deadline, misunderstand a document or action required of you, undervalue your claim, and accept an inappropriate settlement. Protecting your rights and interests is crucial after an accident. Contact a skilled attorney at Ilkhanoff & Silverstein to learn more today.
