6 Ways Insurance Companies Try to Avoid Paying Claims

 Posted on December 11, 2024 in Personal Injury

When policyholders pay premiums to insurance companies, the insurers are obligated to pay valid claims against those policies. Many people believe claims are paid fairly and without any hassle. Unfortunately, insurance companies want to keep as much of your money as they can.

Unless you have competent legal representation to advocate for your best interests, liable insurers can get out of paying you the full amount that you deserve. Whatever kind of claim you have, a knowledgeable Larimer County, CO personal injury lawyer will advocate on your behalf and prevent insurance companies from taking advantage of you.

Accusing You of Fault

The amount of fault you bear for contributing to your accident directly affects your eligibility for compensation and will reduce your damages accordingly. Insurance companies can accuse you of an undeserved degree of fault to reduce or eliminate their liability for your damages.

An apology can be considered an admission of fault. Be careful of what you say to any insurer - even yours - because they can and will use it against you if they find the opportunity.

Making Fast and Low Settlement Offers

Insurers attempt to entice claimants by offering a fast settlement. Your expenses after your accident probably caused you financial strain, and you may be tempted to accept any amount offered. However, until you reach maximum medical improvement, you cannot accurately estimate ongoing medical costs and other future accident-related expenses.

Accepting an offer prevents you from asking for additional funds later. Initial offers are intentionally lower than the amount you qualify to receive. Insurers hope you do not realize you can negotiate for a higher amount.

Refusing to Negotiate

Although settlement negotiations are commonplace, some insurers refuse to participate. Others may never offer a high enough amount to cover your eligible damages. When negotiations do not produce acceptable results, you can file a lawsuit. Insurers hope you think that filing a lawsuit is not worth pursuing.

Disputing Your Damages

In personal injury cases, specific losses and the money you might receive as a result are called damages. Non-economic damages that address intangible losses are hard to prove and quantify. Insurers often accuse victims of exaggerating these losses to escape their liability.

Using Intimidation Tactics

Insurance companies try to protect their profits in any way they can. They often imply that a payment offer is only good for a short time to intimidate claimants into accepting a lower or speedy settlement.

Denying Valid Claims

If insurers think they can get away with denying your claim, they will likely try. You can dispute a denial, but your chance of success increases dramatically if you work with an experienced lawyer.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Skilled Fort Collins, CO Personal Injury Lawyer

There is no reason you have to accept underhanded treatment from insurance companies after your accident, but it can be challenging to stand up for yourself. When you work with Hoggatt Law Office, P.C., a qualified Larimer County, CO personal injury attorney will deal with insurers while you recover. Contact us online or call 970-225-2190 to arrange your free case evaluation.