Why Handling a Car Accident Claim on Your Own Could Cost You Thousands of Dollars
After a car accident, it’s tempting to handle your claim on your own to save on legal fees. Understandable. But the truth is, even a simple conversation with an insurance adjuster can reduce your entitled compensation by thousands of dollars. Insurance companies often approach you as if they are on your side, but they do this to learn how to use even a small mistake against you. Going it alone can leave you undercompensated or worse, with no compensation at all. Here’s why having an experienced attorney by your side matters.
Insurance Companies Are Not Your Friends
Insurance companies are like any other business. They exist to make profits, not to ensure you are fully compensated. Adjusters may seem helpful and offer quick settlements, but in most cases, these often do not account for ongoing treatment, long-term therapy, or lost income. Some of the tricks they use include delaying your claim or shifting blame to you. However, a skilled car accident lawyer in New York can spot such tactics and shield you from them while fighting for fair compensation.
Fault Can Be Complicated
Sometimes, determining who caused the collision can be complex. Insurance companies may challenge your version of events or claim that you were partially at fault to reduce payments. If you are unable to counter the challenge or if you accept blame, you may end up leaving thousands of dollars on the table. On the other hand, if you work with an attorney, they can help gather witness statements, obtain police records, document the scene, and, if necessary, consult accident reconstruction experts to ensure fault is clearly established, thus strengthening your case.
The “Quick Check” Trap
Shortly after an accident, you may be faced with worries about how to cover your medical bills. Insurance adjusters understand this. They may offer a small, immediate check in the name of helping with bills. While on the surface this seems helpful, it is an act designed to settle your claim for far less than its actual value. Once you accept and sign a release form. It may be impossible to receive further compensation, even if your medical expenses increase later. An attorney ensures you don’t fall into this trap and helps plan for long-term needs, including ongoing care and recovery.
Statutes and the Impact of Recorded Statements
Another reason why handling a claim on your own can cost you thousands is that car accident claims have strict timeframes known as a statute of limitations. If you file too late, miss paperwork deadlines, or provide a recorded statement to the wrong party, it can jeopardize your case. A simple call with an insurance adjuster may involve asking leading questions or pressuring you to downplay your injuries. However, when an attorney is involved, these communications are redirected through them, protecting you from mistakes that could cost you thousands.
Accurately Valuing Your Claim
Calculating damages is far more complex than adding up your medical bills. Without the guidance of an attorney, you may underestimate your damages, such as future medical costs, lost wages, reduced earning potential, and more, leaving substantial compensation on the table.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, our skilled Long Island car accident lawyers at Jacobson Law can protect your rights, prevent costly mistakes, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
