Tips & Tactics for Negotiating A Settlement With GEICO
Dealing with insurance companies like GEICO a car accident can be daunting. You might wonder how to navigate the complexities of insurance claims to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Fortunately, there are strategies you can employ to maximize your bodily injury settlement. In this article, you learn the tips and tactics accident lawyers use, from refusing recorded statements to seeking legal assistance.
Refuse The Recorded Statement
You should never feel pressured to give GEICO a recorded statement if they are the at-fault party’s insurance company. Contrary to what they might suggest, it’s not a requirement for your claim to be valid. Refusing a recorded statement can be a wise move, especially when GEICO auto damage adjusters are taking their time determining liability.
If you’re facing such a situation, it might be time to consider contacting a personal injury lawyer. Remember, your own carrier’s collision coverage or uninsured property damage coverage could be options worth exploring, as they might treat you better and work to recover your deductible from the at-fault party’s insurance company.
Get Medical Treatment Immediately After The Car Accident
After a car accident, seeking medical treatment promptly is crucial for various reasons. Firstly, it helps maximize your damages, which are a significant factor in determining your case’s value. Your medical bills often constitute the largest part of an auto accident injury case, making it imperative to receive reasonable and necessary medical treatment.
If you believe you need immediate medical attention, head to the emergency room or seek urgent care. In some cases, taking an ambulance to the emergency room might be the best course of action for your case. However, always ensure your actions are genuine, as insurance companies can discern whether you’re exaggerating your injuries.
Don’t Let The GEICO Adjuster Minimize Your Injuries
GEICO claim adjusters are skilled at downplaying injuries, often categorizing them as minor and only needing a few weeks of treatment. But remember, these adjusters are not doctors and cannot accurately diagnose your condition. If you believe you have legitimate injuries, don’t let them convince you otherwise. Stand firm and advocate for the reasonable and necessary medical treatment you deserve. Ensuring that your injuries are properly assessed and treated is vital to your overall well-being and your claim’s success.
Don’t Agree To Anything Without First Consulting With A Lawyer
While it may initially seem self-interested, consulting with a car accident lawyer right from the start can be a strategic move. Studies indicate that accident victims represented by lawyers tend to receive settlements that are 40% higher than those without legal representation.
In many cases, when clients first attempt to handle their claims independently and then later seek legal assistance, they discover that the Geico settlement is Alaska was considerably lower than what their lawyers were able to negotiate.
Don’t Ever Agree To GEICO’s First Offer
GEICO’s initial settlement offer is rarely their best offer. In fact, it often leans towards the lower end of what can be negotiated. When negotiating with an auto claims adjuster, it’s crucial not to start with too low of a counteroffer. Begin by aiming high, as this gives you room to negotiate and ensures you don’t undersell your case.
For instance, if you’re aiming for a $20,000 settlement, don’t start by demanding $25,000. Instead, start above your target and allow the insurance adjuster to increase their offer before considering your next move. Remember, negotiation is a process, and there should be several rounds of offers before reaching GEICO’s top settlement authority. If their final offer doesn’t meet your expectations, it might be time to consult a car accident attorney.
When negotiating a settlement with GEICO, you want to be informed and prepared. These tips and tactics, based on expert advice, can help you navigate the process successfully. Whether it is refusing recorded statements, seeking immediate medical treatment, or consulting with a lawyer, taking the right steps can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.
