You have been dutifully paying for your car insurance for years. You’ve had the same next-door neighbors for just as long. But then the unthinkable happens: Your neighbor’s teenage daughter backs into you while you are riding your bike near their driveway or you trip and fall on your neighbor’s steps and break your ankle. How will the insurance company involved handle your personal injury claim?
When an insurance company is involved in a personal injury claim
First, you need to keep in mind that your neighbor’s insurance company most likely wants to settle your personal injury claim quickly and for as little as possible. The insurance company even may offer you a settlement to cover the costs of your medical bills or lost time from work. However, that settlement may not represent the amount you deserve. Often, insurance companies offer quick, low-ball settlements to wrap up personal injury claims swiftly.
Second, you need to keep in mind that pursuing a personal injury claim, you are dealing with your neighbor’s insurance company, not your neighbor alone. You may have a good relationship with your neighbor, sharing a beer on your lanai nearly every Friday after a long week of work. That doesn’t mean your neighbor’s insurance company will settle your personal injury claim fairly.
For example, your neighbor’s insurance company may delay paying your injury costs as long as possible. The insurance company may ask you for a recorded statement about the accident. However, that can be a trap, in which you say something inadvertently that hurts your personal injury claim. Your neighbor’s insurance company also could try to prove your injury is a pre-existing condition, not the result of your neighbor’s negligence. Finally, your neighbor’s insurance company likely is combing your social media to try to prove your injury isn’t as bad as you claim.
Facing problems getting your personal injury costs covered
You may need to consult a personal injury attorney if you face roadblocks getting your personal injury costs covered or if you face a long recovery. You want to ensure you get maximum compensation for your injuries. You want to be able to focus on your recovery, not fighting to get your medical bills paid.