Dealing with State Farm After an Accident
State Farm is one of the largest auto insurance companies in the nation. While State Farm may try to emphasize customer service as its highest priority, it is a business with the chief intent to turn a profit and protect its shareholders. Because of this, they will do everything they can to avoid paying you the money you deserve.
If you are in an auto wreck, dealing with State Farm after an accident without the help of an experienced attorney could result in a settlement offer that is less than what you actually deserve. That it why it is crucial you reach out to the dedicated team of attorneys at Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers before you speak with the insurance company. We can handle your claim so that you are not taken advantage of.
A Lawyer Can File a Claim with State Farm
With the intent to maximize profits and use all available resources to investigate (and sometimes deny) claims, large insurance companies such as State Farm do everything they can to try to invalidate claims filed against them. This makes it vital to have qualified legal representation that knows how to deal with large insurance companies and could anticipate delays or roadblocks they may put up.
When you are hurt in a crash, you may need to file a claim for compensation with State Farm if it insures the at-fault driver or you have personal coverage through the carrier. When your lawyer files the claim, they may have to provide information such as:
- Your insurance policy number or the name and policy number of the at-fault individual or entity
- Contact information for any passengers who were involved in the collision
- A copy of the police report from the crash
- Evidence documenting any property damage
- Documentation of any bodily injuries stemming from the accident, including an initial physician or emergency room visit and any other relevant details
What Happens After a Claim Is Filed
After your lawyer files the claim, it is assigned to a State Farm claims adjuster, who works on behalf of the insurance company and whose job is to settle your claim for as little as possible.
Many people try to settle their claim with State Farm Insurance on their own. However, this is a mistake. Insurance adjusters are trained to get claimants to make statements that could hurt their claims. Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers deals with State Farm on a daily basis, and we can make sure your rights are protected.
Reaching a Settlement Offer
Once you have completed treatment and have a fair grasp on the magnitude and costs of your personal injuries, your lawyer would use this information to arrive at a settlement figure to properly compensate for your losses. The adjuster may reject your first settlement demand, and would likely try to get your lawyer to agree to an amount that is far less than the settlement demand originally made. This tactic is commonly used by insurers to gauge how much fight someone has in them and whether their claim can be settled swiftly. When this happens, your lawyer may ask the adjuster to justify the amount they are offering.
As serious as your injuries may be, the adjuster cares very little about your personal situation. They are most concerned about the financial exposure of State Farm and how much they are going to have to pay to get rid of your claim. While you can expect your first settlement demand figure to be turned down, your lawyer will most likely advise you that you should not feel compelled to accept a counteroffer that is too low. An attorney could conduct aggressive negotiations with State Farm to reach a fair settlement, or if a settlement is not possible, pursue a legal remedy in court.
How an Attorney Could Help You Deal with State Farm After a Wreck
Insurance companies like State Farm have been built to safeguard their revenue at all costs, which means they may use all of their resources available to investigate and find potential faults in your claim. An accomplished personal injury attorney could help you pursue a fair settlement from State Farm by negotiating on your behalf with the adjuster. Where it is not possible to reach a settlement or it does not serve your best interests, a lawyer could explore other options to help you get the money you deserve. Call today to schedule a case consultation and discuss your legal options after an accident.
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