John S. Bingham Automobile Accidents Law Blog on Lawyers.com

"Best Practices" When Dealing with Insurance Companies

Tuesday, October 13, 2009 by John S. Bingham

Dealing with Insurance Companies Following Car Accident Injuries

If you have been injured in a car accident in johnson city due to the negligence of another driver, you have the right to pursue litigation toward compensation. Part of the process of recovering finances for physical or emotional damage includes dealing with insurance companies. Several practices are recommended when dealing with insurance companies following car accident injury.

Refer to your legal counsel – Insurance firms will likely request a recorded statement, or request your signature on documentation, or request specific information regarding your injuries, or ask for similar data. It is highly advisable to have the insurance company contact your legal representative, rather than give this information yourself. Your counsel will know what is truly necessary, and how to avoid having insurance companies use your information toward lowering possible reimbursement amounts.

Record all contact with insurance companies – If and when you are contacted by insurance company representatives, make sure to take detailed notes regarding who you spoke with, their position, their contact number, and more. This will enable proper tracking and follow-up, and reduce delays in compensation.

Be quick – When you have been injured, make sure to contact all insurance companies of all parties involved in a speedy manner. There may be limited insurance funding available in accidents with multiple serious injuries, and it is crucial to not delay in registering your accident with the companies.

Do not agree with leading questions – There may be times when insurance adjusters ask leading questions; for example, “You weren’t badly hurt, were you?” Be on your guard with such questions, and remember to refer insurance companies to your legal counsel for any injury details.

Be aware of the role of insurance firms – Insurance companies are there to protect their own interests and those of their clients, not to protect your interests. You need to protect yourself with knowledge, and with legal representation.

This article was provided by car accident attorneys in Johnson City, Hawkins, Bingham & Miller, 1397 East Center Street, Kingsport, Tennessee 37664, Tel: 888.747.3952.

Posted at 09:29 AM

Topic: Automobile Accidents