If you’ve been injured in an auto accident in Oregon, the at-fault driver’s insurance should cover your expenses. While the difficulty of filing an insurance claim depends on the insurance company, the adjuster, and strength of the at-fault party’s liability, it’s important to understand that some insurance companies will do everything possible to hurt your auto insurance claim. As an injured party involved in an auto accident, the three most common insurance adjuster tactics to be aware of are delaying, denying, and defending.
Delaying - Every day an insurance company can delay paying you is an extra day they can earn interest; additionally, they know as each day passes you’ll grow increasingly tired and wary of the claims process and, as a result, you’ll be more willing to settle for less than you deserve.
Denying - Sometimes an adjuster will deny a claim without telling you the reason or, will deny a claim for a small reason. If they won’t offer you an explanation, it’s a good idea to hire an experienced auto accident attorney who can communicate with the insurance adjuster on your behalf.
Defending - If your claim has been denied and you’re still fighting for compensation, you may need to file a lawsuit. Not only can an auto accident attorney file a complaint for you, but they will often be able to negotiate for a higher settlement amount.
In many cases, those injured in an auto accident believe the only expenses the at-fault driver’s insurance is expected to cover are medical bills. This is not true as the expenses may also include lost wages, including future loss of earnings, household services, property damages, loss of enjoyment, emotional stress, physical pain, and permanent disability.
If you’ve been injured in an Oregon auto accident, filing an auto insurance claim can prove to be difficult and lengthy process. If you don’t feel comfortable navigating the process it’s important to talk with an experienced auto accident attorney. They can give you advice on how to communicate with insurance adjusters and can be the difference between receiving the compensation you deserve for your injuries and being left to cover the expenses on your own.
Our Oregon personal injury attorneys at Nelson MacNeil Rayfield have over 15 years of collective past experience working for insurance companies. Additionally, we have over 70 years of legal and trial experience among our attorneys representing individuals with personal injury claims against insurance companies. We will fight the insurance companies on your behalf in order to protect your rights.
Don’t hesitate to call us at 877-928-9147 if you have any questions, would like advice, or want a free consultation. You may also fill out the form and we will respond to your auto accident injury claim.