Key Takeaways
- Insurance companies prioritize their profits over your well-being, so they are not on your side.
- You don’t have to accept the first settlement offer; it might be a lowball that undercovers your true damages.
- You can get a second medical examination for unbiased assessment to support your claim.
- Compensation goes beyond vehicle repairs; it includes medical costs, lost income, and emotional distress.
- Hiring an attorney increases your chances of receiving full compensation and levels the playing field against insurers.
After a car accident in Alabama, dealing with an insurance company can feel overwhelming. While insurance is designed to help you recover damages, the reality is that obtaining fair compensation is often more complicated than it seems.
At the Fob James Law Firm, our experienced car accident attorneys want to help you navigate this process. Understanding the tactics insurance companies often use can significantly improve your chances of maximizing your recovery.
1. The Insurance Company Is Not Your Friend
One of the first things insurance companies don’t want you to know is that they are not on your side. Insurance providers are businesses, and their primary goal is to protect their bottom line.
While they may appear helpful, their interest in minimizing payouts often conflicts with your need for fair compensation. Keep in mind that any advice or offers they provide may be designed to save them money—not to fully cover your damages or injuries.
2. You Don’t Have to Accept the First Offer
Many accident victims make the mistake of accepting the first settlement offer from an insurance company. This is another thing insurers prefer you not know.
Insurance companies often push lowball offers to settle claims quickly, before your injuries are fully treated or your medical expenses are clear. Accepting too early can leave you undercompensated for:
- Medical bills and treatment costs
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
Before agreeing to any settlement, contact an experienced Alabama car accident lawyer to review the offer. A skilled attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement or take your case to trial if necessary.
3. You Can Get a Second Medical Examination
Some insurance companies require an adverse medical exam with a doctor they choose. While you may feel pressured to comply, you are allowed to get a second examination with a doctor of your choice.
An independent medical evaluation ensures you have an unbiased assessment of your injuries, which can strengthen your case when negotiating with the insurance company or presenting your claim in court.
4. Compensation Can Include More Than Property Damage
Insurance companies may try to limit payments to vehicle repairs only. However, after a car accident, you may also be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation costs
- Lost income due to inability to work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
An attorney can help calculate the full value of your claim, ensuring that you receive all compensation you are legally entitled to.
5. An Attorney Can Help Maximize Your Claim
Perhaps the most important secret insurers don’t want you to know: hiring an attorney increases your chances of receiving full compensation.
Insurance companies hope you handle your claim without legal representation. When you have an experienced car accident lawyer on your side, it levels the playing field. Attorneys can:
- Gather evidence to support your claim
- Negotiate with the insurance company
- Represent you in court if necessary
At Fob James Law Firm, we understand the frustration of dealing with insurers after a car accident. Our team has helped countless clients recover the compensation they deserve. You don’t have to navigate this process alone.
Contact us today online or call (205) 407-6009 for a free consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and get the settlement you deserve.
Fob James
Fob James obtained a B.S., in software engineering from Auburn University and then continued his education by getting his J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law. After working for a large regional firm for several years where he obtained awards for both individual and corporate clients, Fob found that his passion was fighting for individuals who have been seriously injured or wronged by others. Fob believes that the jury is the great equalizer to the power and influence that large corporations have in society.