Car accidents are traumatic enough, but the aftermath shouldn’t feel like another disaster. Sadly, insurance companies aren’t always your allies. They are businesses that often put profits before people, so they may minimize or even deny your rightful compensation. From delaying your claim to blaming you for the accident, there are many strategies they might try to use so they don’t have to pay you.
At Maida Law Firm, we know the games insurance companies play. We’ve spent years helping Houston accident victims fight back and get the settlements they deserve. If you’re facing unfair treatment after an accident, a Houston car accident attorney is on your side. Contact us for a free case evaluation and let us navigate the complexities for you.
Strategy 1: Delaying Your Claim
One of the most common tactics insurers use is simply dragging their feet. They might launch overly long investigations, request mountains of paperwork you don’t truly need to provide, or become unresponsive for weeks at a time. Why do they do this? They’re betting on two things: first, that you’ll get frustrated and settle for a lower amount just to end the ordeal, and second, that evidence might weaken over time.
What can you do? Keep a detailed log of all communications with the insurance company. Be aware of important deadlines in your claim. A knowledgeable Houston car accident attorney can also push back against these tactics, keeping your claim on track.
Strategy 2: Blaming You for the Accident
Even if the police report clearly puts the other driver at fault, insurance companies can try to twist the situation. They might claim you were partially responsible, citing reasons like speeding, distracted driving, or even a minor traffic violation unrelated to the core cause of the crash. Their goal is simple: if they reduce their insured’s liability, they reduce the amount they have to pay you.
What can you do? Have a car accident attorney review the Houston police report and any other evidence. They can help you build a strong case that demonstrates the other driver’s fault and protects your right to compensation. Don’t let the insurance company rewrite the story of your accident.
Strategy 3: Downplaying Your Injuries
Insurance companies love to question the severity of your injuries. They may claim your injuries are pre-existing, unrelated to the crash, or simply not as bad as you say they are. This is all to minimize their financial responsibility for your medical bills and long-term care.
What can you do? Meticulous medical documentation is your strongest defense. See a doctor immediately after the accident, follow all treatment plans, and keep detailed records of appointments, medications, and changes in your condition. If the insurer disputes the necessity of your medical treatment, a skilled Houston attorney can help you get a second medical opinion to validate your condition.
Strategy 4: The Quick and Low Settlement Offer
In the days or weeks after your accident, you might be surprised by a seemingly generous settlement offer from the insurance company. This is a deliberate tactic. They know you’re likely stressed, overwhelmed, and may not fully understand the long-term costs associated with your injuries. They’re banking on you accepting a quick payout that will fall far short of your actual needs.
What can you do? Never accept the first offer without consulting a car accident attorney. A good lawyer will help you calculate the true value of your claim, including future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You shouldn’t be rushed into a decision you might regret later.
Strategy 5: Denying Your Claim Altogether
Sometimes, insurance companies resort to outright denial of your claim. They might cite obscure policy loopholes, misrepresent the events of the accident, or invent reasons that your policy supposedly doesn’t cover the situation. Their goal is to intimidate you into giving up.
What can you do? You have the right to fight a wrongful denial. An experienced car accident lawyer can carefully review your insurance policy to expose their bad-faith practices and appeal their decision. Remember, denying a claim doesn’t mean the fight is over.
A Houston Car Accident Attorney Can Take on Big Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may have a playbook of tactics, but you have rights that we can help you fight for. By understanding their tricks, we can push back and demand the fair compensation needed to rebuild your life.
Our team at Maida Law Firm is not afraid to take on difficult or aggressive insurance companies. If you feel the insurance company is giving you the runaround, contact us today for a free case evaluation. Let us handle the legal battle so you can focus on recovery.