Can insurance adjusters delay a crash claim? Even though insurance adjusters play a pivotal role in the aftermath of a crash, they can also delay a crash claim, sometimes unintentionally, sometimes not.
Understanding the reasons behind these delays can equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate this situation effectively. A Charlotte car accident lawyer can assist with your crash claim.
The Role of Insurance Adjusters
Insurance adjusters are professionals who assess the damage to your vehicle, medical bills, and other costs associated with an accident. Their objective is to settle the claim for as little as possible.
It’s crucial to remember that they work for the insurance company, not for you. They are skilled negotiators, often using tactics designed to minimize the payout. Here are some examples:
- They need more information. They may continuously ask for additional information, often encouraging you to submit details that may seem intrusive or unrelated to the accident.
- They may dispute accurate information. Even with evidence, insurance companies may try to delay the process of agreeing to a claim by outright denying the claim.
- Questioning your role. In some situations, insurance adjusters may try to claim you are at fault, even partially so, for the accident. This creates delays in getting additional information.
In these and other situations, insurance adjusters may try to delay the process simply because it frustrates you. And in doing so, they hope you will agree to a fraction of what they owe to you. By working with a Charlotte personal injury lawyer, you minimize their reach and limit their ability to put you at risk through delays.
Speak with a Charlotte car accident lawyer and get a free consultation today.
Call (980) 294-4931Reasons for Delay in Crash Claims
There are numerous reasons insurance adjusters might delay a crash claim. These can range from simple administrative issues, such as a backlog of claims, to more strategic reasons, like waiting for you to become desperate and accept a lower settlement. Sometimes, adjusters deliberately prolong the process, hoping that claimants will drop the claim or settle for less.
The insurance company’s goal is to limit the amount of money they pay out. By delaying the process, they hope you settle for less, or they push your claim process beyond the statute of limitations. State law determines the statute of limitations for filing a claim.
How to Respond to Delays
If your crash claim is being delayed, it’s essential not to panic or make rash decisions. Keep a detailed record of all communication with the insurance company, including dates, times, and the content of the discussions. If the delay continues, consider seeking legal advice.
A knowledgeable attorney can guide you through your options and help you decide on the best course of action. Your attorney can do several things to help you:
- Gather evidence to substantiate your claim. That includes resolving any concerns the insurance company has brought to your attention.
- Pressure the insurance company to make decisions and move forward. That often involves providing exceptional negotiation skills to move your case forward.
- Disputing claims made against you. That may mean gathering information and data to support your case and claim.
Every case is vastly different, but if you believe the insurance company is denying your claim unfairly or the adjuster simply is not responding to you as expected, it is time to seek legal guidance. With the help of a car accident lawyer, you gain insight into how to move your case forward.
Preventing Future Delays
To help prevent future delays, ensure you provide all necessary documentation promptly and accurately. This includes police reports, medical records, and proof of loss statements. You might also consider hiring a legal professional to help negotiate your case. If you are unsure whether an attorney can help you, request a free consultation.
During that consultation, relay to the attorney what is happening and why it is occurring. Your attorney can analyze the details available and help you determine if the insurance company is being fair or not. They can also tell you what your legal options are.
Consultations do not cost you anything. They are an opportunity for you to gather additional information on your legal options. By speaking to a car accident lawyer, you will be well on your way to making critical decisions.
Bad Faith Claims Related to Insurance Adjusters
In some situations, insurance adjusters may be violating the law if they act in bad faith. Bad faith means that the insurance company is not acting as they should and is being unreasonable or dishonest during the process. It is not simple to prove bad faith, but you must demonstrate the following elements:
- Have a valid contract. Make sure your contract is valid and applies to your situation.
- Demonstrate unreasonable delays. This may include refusal to pay benefits or undervaluing your claim. Provide evidence that they are stalling without a reasonable or factual reason for doing so.
- Demonstrate intent or recklessness. This is the more challenging part. It requires you to show that their actions were intentional and willful and that they were driven by reckless disregard for your rights.
Your car accident lawyer can help you gather evidence to substantiate a bad faith claim. They will provide you with insight into whether the insurance company is acting unfairly or has justified reasons for the delay. With legal guidance, you can make better decisions on moving forward.
Speak to an Attorney Today
While insurance adjusters can delay a crash claim, understanding their role and knowing how to respond can help you navigate the process.
Remember, you have every right to a fair and timely settlement following a crash. Don’t let delays dishearten you or force you to accept less than you deserve. Call a Charlotte car accident lawyer from Shane Smith Law today about your case.
