Talking to Insurance Companies After a Catastrophic Injury?

Insurance adjusters always strive to pay as little as possible on claims. By delaying payments, offering low settlements, or denying valid claims, insurance companies can pad their profits. If you recently experienced an injury or accident, you should never speak with the insurance company before consulting an attorney.

At Mark C. Tanenbaum, our team of legal professionals is focused solely on recovering the full extent of your losses. Our catastrophic injury lawyers in Charleston, SC, can explain why it is never advisable to speak with the insurance company without first retaining counsel, especially in catastrophic injury cases.

Reporting a Motor Vehicle Accident to Your Insurance Company

Even though liability may seem straightforward in your car accident case, claims adjusters are masters at misconstruing your words. Key phrases to avoid include “I’m sorry,” “I feel fine,” or “The other car came out of nowhere.” Basically, anything that can be interpreted as an admission of guilt or downplaying your injuries can hurt your claim. To avoid any missteps, it is recommended that you speak with a car accident lawyer who is more than happy and prepared to handle communications on your behalf.

Risks of Speaking With the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company

As an at-fault state, the party responsible for the crash will pay any and all accident-related claims. The other driver will file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer (a third-party claim). If the at-fault party’s insurer is taking too long to provide compensation, then you may file a claim through your own insurance company. Once the at-fault driver’s insurer can provide payment, they will reimburse your insurance company in a process known as subrogation.

Understandably, you may want to speed up the process. While you may think that speaking directly with the other driver’s insurance company is a good solution, it will likely only complicate matters. This is especially true if you believe the other driver is lying and you call their insurer to dispute your position.

Why Catastrophic Injury Claims Are Treated Differently

Federal law defines a catastrophic injury as a severe or life-threatening injury that results in permanent disability or such extensive impairment that renders a person physically incapable of working (including sedentary work such as a desk job). Unlike a standard personal injury claim, catastrophic injuries involve continuous expenses and lost wages. Recovering compensation for future damages is essential for catastrophic injury victims to afford necessary future medical costs and treatments.

How Insurance Companies Undervalue Catastrophic Injury Claims

Unfortunately, the insurance company’s initial offer is typically only worth about 40% of what your personal injury case is worth. If you speak to the insurance company before consulting with an attorney, you risk future counteroffers always falling short of your actual expenses.

The catastrophic injury attorneys at Mark C. Tanenbaum have years of experience dealing with insurance companies. We are familiar with their tactics and can negotiate effectively to resolve your claim promptly. If you are ready to get the settlement check that is rightfully due to you, contact our firm today.

Speak With a Charleston Catastrophic Injury Attorney Today

The devastation of a catastrophic injury can be felt in every aspect of a person’s life. At Mark C. Tanenbaum, our Charleston catastrophic injury lawyers have helped numerous individuals fully recover from their losses. We believe that making a person “whole” again involves recouping physical, emotional, and financial damages. To arrange your free consultation or to learn more about our process, contact us online or call (843) 577-5100 today.