Insurance is a key source of compensation for those who suffer injuries in Texas motor vehicle accidents. Unfortunately, injured people must often fight to get insurance companies to treat them fairly. As big businesses, insurers care about the bottom line more than anything. They use many tactics to minimize payouts and boost their profits.
In this article, our Dallas auto accident lawyers will discuss five common ways insurers try to reduce or deny claims made by injured Texans.
1. Contacting You Soon After the Accident
Insurance adjusters are known to contact injured people soon after a crash, sometimes even on the same day. This is a tactic to catch you off guard. They know you probably haven’t spoken to a lawyer yet. They hope you’ll be stressed out enough that you’ll accept some quick compensation then and there.
Remember, you have no obligation to accept their settlement offer. Instead, tell the adjuster that you intend to take time to understand the full extent of your injuries before considering any settlements.
2. Delaying the Claims Process
Once you file a claim, the Texas Insurance Code gives insurers 15 business days to accept or deny it. However, insurance companies frequently find ways to delay claims by making excuses. They might insist you get more medical evaluations or provide more documentation. They might tell you they are understaffed and can’t get to your claim.
These delay tactics are designed to frustrate you. They hope to get to the point that you’re willing to accept a low settlement just to put the issue behind you.
3. Denying the Claim
Your claim could be denied outright. The company might not even explain why. Other times, they will deny it with an explanation that places the blame on you. If your claim is denied, your lawyer can look into the situation. They can gather evidence and possibly file an appeal or prepare a lawsuit.
4. Undervaluing Your Claim
Insurance companies know that the average person can’t understand medical bills, treatment costs and how they are paid. Insurers use this fact to confuse you into thinking your bills are less than what they really are. It takes an experienced attorney to compile medical records and calculate the true value of your claim.
5. Disputing Your Medical Treatment
Insurers try to reduce payouts by arguing that the patient’s treatment was excessive or unnecessary. In some cases, they insist that you be examined by a company-approved doctor. This is all done to downplay your injuries and pay less than you deserve.
A Texas Lawyer Can Help You Fight Insurance Company Delay and Denial Tactics
You don’t have to fight the insurance company yourself. The personal injury attorneys at Ted B. Lyon & Associates in Dallas have decades of experience taking on insurers. They help injured people get the compensation they deserve.
Call 877-Ted-Lyon or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation with a lawyer who can help you understand your options.
