Settlements from insurance companies can be a huge sign of relief. Several victims rely on insurance claims to pay for their finances after an accident. The procedure to file a claim can be simple.
However, many victims do not know how exactly the procedure must be done. Knowing the top mistakes, you must avoid when filing insurance claims after an accident would be beneficial. By preventing such errors, accident victims can significantly increase their chances of a higher settlement.
Accident victims should also consider hiring a Texas oilfield accident lawyer to ensure the claim procedure is free of blunders.
Blunders you need to avoid when filling insurance claims:
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Waiting for too long to file a claim
You must report an accident or loss to your insurer as soon as possible. If you wait too long to file a claim, the insurer may question the validity of your claim or assume that you are not seriously injured.
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Disclosing damages partially
It’s also essential to be honest, and accurate when reporting your damages to your insurer. Your claim may be denied or reduced if you fail to disclose all of your injuries. If you want to avoid stating any facts that could risk the claim, you should hire a lawyer in Texas and ask them to take care of the procedure.
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Admitting fault
Even if you believe that you were partially or fully at fault for the accident, you should not admit fault to your insurer. This statement can be used against you to reduce or deny your claim.
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Failing to gather and preserve documentation
To support your claim, you will need to provide documentation, such as medical bills, receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, and documentation of lost wages. Make sure you have all the necessary documentation before filing your claim.
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Not seeking legal help.
If you are facing pushback from the insurer or are unsure how to handle the claim process, consider hiring a lawyer to advocate for your rights. An experienced attorney can help you negotiate a higher settlement and advise you on the strength of your case.
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Not understanding your policy.
Before you file a claim, ensure you understand what your policy covers. It will likely be denied if you file a claim for something that is not covered.
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Not negotiating
If you are not satisfied with the initial settlement offer from the insurer, feel free to negotiate for a higher amount. Gather evidence to support your claim and be prepared to explain why you deserve a higher settlement.
