Car Accident In Daytona Beach? Use Caution In Dealing With Insurers Afterward
Considering the high cost of automobile insurance, it is reasonable for drivers to assume a policy will cover their costs in the event of a car accident in Daytona Beach. Unfortunately, this is often not the case. Insurance companies are big businesses and often employ brutal tactics. It is not uncommon for insurance disputes to arise that result in your car accident claim being denied or delayed.
Insurance Companies Are NOT On Your Side
Insurance companies promote themselves as providing protection in cases of car accidents or other unexpected events. However, the fact is that they are big businesses whose primary focus is making money.
According to statistics from the Insurance Information Institute (III), the insurance industry brings in billions of dollars in profits each year. They have two primary ways of protecting these profits: One is by regularly raising policy premiums. In Florida, consumers pay the third highest rate in the country for automobile coverage, averaging close to $1,400 per person. The other is to reduce expenses, namely the amount they pay-outs on car accident claims. Common tactics they are likely to employ to include:
- Disputing the circumstances surrounding your car accident and who is to blame;
- Downplaying the amount of damage you suffer and the extent of your injuries;
- Denying your claim due to the terms of your policy or stating the accident itself was not covered;
- Approving your claim but offering you far less than what you are entitled to in any settlements or need to recover.
Protect Yourself When Dealing With Insurers
Unfortunately, insurance disputes happen frequently in the aftermath of car accidents in Daytona Beach but there are ways you can protect yourself and your rights in a claim. Notify police immediately after a crash, get personal contact information and insurance numbers for all drivers involved, and document your injuries by visiting the hospital or your family doctor. Report the crash to your insurer as soon as possible in the days immediately after.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) warns consumers to use caution in making these reports and in dealing with insurance representatives involved. Ways you need to protect yourself include:
- When reporting your car accident, stick to basic facts. Avoid speculating about how it happened or what you think were the causes.
- Guard your emotions when talking to insurance representatives and be aware that any type of statement you make could be used against you.
- Refused to be rushed into an immediate settlement, which is a common tactic insurers employ to reduce payout amounts.
While you are required to make a statement to your insurer regarding your version of events, you have the right to consult with a car accident attorney first.
Contact Us Today for Help
Before making statements that could jeopardize your rights in a car accident claim, speak with a member of our legal team at Bundza & Rodriguez, P.A. first. To request a consultation, contact our Daytona Beach insurance disputes attorneys today.
https://www.daytonalawyers.com/evidence-that-can-help-you-in-a-personal-injury-claim/
