Common Insurance Company Tactics After a Pedestrian Accident — and How to Protect Yourself
Pedestrian accidents can have life-altering consequences, leaving victims to face physical injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting financial burdens. The vulnerability of pedestrians in these incidents often makes them reliant on insurance companies for compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. However, it is important to recognize that insurers operate as for-profit businesses, and their primary goal is to protect their bottom line, often at the expense of accident victims. By understanding the tactics insurance companies commonly use, you can take steps to safeguard your rights after a pedestrian accident. This blog highlights these tactics and offers proactive measures to defend yourself, including seeking legal representation from experienced attorneys like those at Latham & Martin.
Quick Settlement Offers
One of the most common strategies employed by insurance companies following a pedestrian accident is making a quick settlement offer. While these offers may initially seem like a prompt resolution to your claim, they often fail to provide fair compensation that reflects the full extent of your damages. Insurers rely on the fact that victims may be overwhelmed, stressed, and in need of immediate financial relief. They may pressure you to accept a lowball offer before you have had the opportunity to fully understand the long-term impact of your injuries or consult with a legal professional.
Quick settlement offers are problematic for several reasons. First, they rarely account for future medical expenses or reduced earning capacity if your injuries result in long-term disabilities. Additionally, once you accept a settlement, you forfeit your right to pursue further compensation, even if unforeseen medical complications arise later. It is crucial to exercise caution and avoid rushing into an agreement without a comprehensive evaluation of your case and damages.
Denying or Delaying Claims
Another tactic frequently used by insurance companies is denying or delaying claims. By rejecting valid claims outright or prolonging the process of approval, insurers create significant hurdles for victims seeking rightful compensation. These tactics not only cause unnecessary stress but can also lead to victims accepting unfavorable settlements out of desperation.
Insurance companies may deny claims by disputing liability, arguing that the victim was partially or fully at fault for the accident. Alternatively, they may question the legitimacy of injuries or suggest that the victim’s medical treatment was unnecessary or excessive. Delayed claims processing often involves requesting extensive documentation, conducting repetitive investigations, or simply stalling without providing clear reasoning. These strategies are designed to wear down victims, making them more willing to settle for less or abandon their claims altogether.
It is essential for victims to document all interactions with insurance adjusters and keep copies of any medical records, police reports, and evidence related to the accident. These records can serve as valuable support in the event of an unjust claim denial or delay.
Minimizing Injuries
Insurance companies often attempt to downplay the severity of a victim’s injuries to justify offering lower settlements. They may argue that injuries are pre-existing, exaggerated, or unrelated to the accident. For example, an insurance adjuster might scrutinize your medical history or claim that specific treatments or rehabilitation services are unnecessary.
The importance of undergoing a thorough medical evaluation cannot be overstated in such cases. Seeking immediate medical attention following a pedestrian accident ensures that all injuries are properly documented, including those that may not present symptoms right away. Accurate and detailed medical records serve as crucial evidence in refuting attempts by insurers to diminish the legitimacy of your injuries.
Insurance companies may also send victims to their own preferred medical professionals for evaluations, which often result in reports that favor the insurer’s interests. It is advisable to consult your own trusted healthcare provider and seek a second opinion if needed to ensure that your injuries are accurately assessed and treated.
How to Protect Yourself
Protecting yourself after a pedestrian accident requires a proactive approach. Taking a few critical steps can significantly strengthen your case and help you secure the compensation you deserve. The first and most immediate step is seeking medical attention. Regardless of whether your injuries seem minor or severe, a prompt medical evaluation ensures that all injuries are documented and treated, establishing a direct link between the accident and your condition.
Gathering evidence at the scene of the accident is equally important. If you are physically able, take photographs or videos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Obtain contact information for witnesses who can provide statements about what occurred. Additionally, secure a copy of the police report, as this can serve as a crucial piece of evidence when building your claim.
Consulting an experienced pedestrian accident attorney is perhaps the most effective way to protect your rights. Attorneys with expertise in this area understand the tactics used by insurance companies and can advocate on your behalf to negotiate for fair compensation. Legal representation ensures that your case is handled professionally while allowing you to focus on recovery. The Richmond pedestrian accident attorneys at Latham & Martin have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for clients and can guide you through every stage of the claims process.
Know When to Take Action
Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be an overwhelming experience, particularly when dealing with insurance companies intent on minimizing their payouts. By understanding the tactics insurers use to undermine claims and taking proactive measures to protect yourself, you can increase your chances of securing the compensation you deserve. Remember that seeking medical attention, gathering evidence, and consulting a skilled attorney are crucial steps in defending your rights.
Do not face this challenging time alone. Contact Latham & Martin today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys. Call 804-821-0090, and take the first step toward justice and recovery. Your well-being and rights matter, and we are here to fight for them.
