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When accidents and injuries disrupt lives, personal injury lawyers become invaluable. They advocate for those harmed by others' negligence, helping them secure proper compensation. This article explores the important role personal injury lawyers play in helping individuals navigate their claims and rebuild their lives.

Common Tactics and Defenses Insurance Adjusters Use in Personal Injury Cases

Common Insurance Adjuster Tactics

Insurance adjusters often employ various tactics to deny, discredit, or delay personal injury claims. Here are some of the most common:

- Accessing Medical Records: Adjusters may request access to your medical records to find any prior conditions that could minimize your claim. They seek access to your entire medical history, not just records related to the accident.
- Offering Low-Ball Settlements: Adjusters may offer a quick, small settlement shortly after the accident, hoping you will accept it out of desperation. Signing a full release means you won't be entitled to additional compensation if your condition worsens.
- Surveillance: Adjusters might place you under surveillance to catch you performing daily tasks that could be used to undermine your claim.
- Discouraging Legal Counsel: Adjusters may try to dissuade you from hiring an attorney, promising fairness in handling your claim. They know an attorney will effectively counter these tactics.

Protecting Yourself from Shady Adjuster Tactics

To protect yourself:

- Know Your Rights: Educate yourself on your rights and the claims process.
- Refuse Broad Medical Releases: Only provide medical documents related to the accident.
- Assume Surveillance: Follow your doctor’s advice and avoid activities that contradict your injury claims.
- Avoid Quick Settlements: Consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement offers.

If you encounter issues with your adjuster, such as claim denial or misinformation, evaluate your original insurance policy agreement and seek legal assistance if necessary. Walker, Billingsley & Bair can help you navigate these challenges and fight on your behalf.

Should I Hire an Attorney for a Bicycle Accident?

After a bicycle accident in Iowa, hiring an attorney can be crucial for several reasons:

- Comparative Negligence Laws: Iowa's comparative negligence law can reduce your damages based on your proportion of fault. An attorney can help minimize your fault percentage to maximize your compensation.
- Negotiating Settlements: An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive the full amount you deserve.
- Filing a Lawsuit: Severe injuries may require filing a lawsuit. An attorney can guide you through the legal process, ensuring all procedural and substantive requirements are met.

Actions to Take

Walker, Billingsley & Bair are ready to assist with your claim by:

- Negotiating Settlements
- Proving Fault of the Other Party
- Filing Lawsuits
- Providing Support

We Are Here To Help

Remember, you are not alone in recovering from your injuries. We have helped thousands of Iowans through their physical, emotional, and financial recoveries. If you have questions about what you are going through, feel free to call our office for your confidential injury conference. We will take the time to listen to you and give you our advice concerning your injury matter at no cost or risk to you.

Free Book at No Cost 

If you are not ready to speak with an attorney yet but would like to learn more about Iowa injury cases including tips about how you can avoid making common costly mistakes request a copy of our Iowa Personal Injury book which includes 14 myths about Iowa injury cases and 5 things to know before hiring an attorney.

If you have specific questions about your injury matter feel free to call our office to speak with our Injury team at 641-792-3595 or use our Chat feature by clicking here 24 hours a day/7 days per week. Your information will remain confidential and there is no cost or obligation.