If you have been involved in a car accident, it is not uncommon for the insurance company to say they are on your side, while at the same time providing little assistance.
There are two reasons why you pay for car insurance. The first, of course, is that the law requires you to. The second is that you want to safeguard yourself against tragedy, and whatever your monthly payment might be, it is well worth the peace of mind. Unfortunately, drivers often find that after they sustain damages from a St. Louis car accident, their insurance company gives them a meager offer for assistance. After so many years of payments, they feel wronged by such little help. Realistically though, what can you do about it? Below, we’ll explain why insurance companies offer such little assistance and how a St. Louis car accident attorney can get you the help you deserve.
They are Focused on Profit
Though their commercials will claim that their top priority is you, insurance companies care most about profit. We don’t want to slander all insurance companies as cold-blooded profit-seekers, but you must realize that if they pay out too much on claims, they will go out of business. When a customer makes a claim, an insurance company may want to serve them effectively, but at the same time save as much money as possible. This emphasis on profit generally leads to small offers.
You Discounted Your Case
Sometimes a driver will say something they shouldn’t have, and it will lower the offer they receive. A typical example of this is downplaying another driver’s fault after an accident to be polite. You might want to be nice at the moment but realize later on that the other driver was at fault and that they should pay for your damages. If you are on record saying that nobody was at fault, that could lower your offer.
Discussing Before You Know The Severity of Your Injuries
The rule of thumb is that you should see a doctor as soon as possible after an accident and that you should never talk to an insurance company before you do. If you tell them that you feel fine, but then find out about an injury, later on, your offer will likely suffer.
Not Hiring a Lawyer
Trying to get assistance on your own is a dangerous decision for anybody without legal training. While it seems cheaper, in the long run, it really isn’t. Having an experienced lawyer at your side could ensure proper treatment from insurance companies.
Hiring an Ineffective Lawyer
Hiring the wrong lawyer can be just as bad as trying to represent yourself. Be sure to do your research and find a St. Louis car accident attorney that has a track record of success. If you don’t take care in choosing your legal provider, it will come back to haunt you later.
Low offers are deflating, but they can be fought or avoided with the help of a capable attorney. What makes a good lawyer so useful is that they have seen it all before. They know how to compile evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and if necessary, argue your case in a courtroom. These are all difficult tasks that are not only difficult for the average person but especially those who have been injured in a car accident and may be dealing with physical recovery. Your attorney will not only handle them but will be a source for great advice and fight for you every step of the way.