Fairfield Personal Injury Attorneys

Life can be abruptly disrupted by accidents and injuries. In these tough times, personal injury lawyers are key allies. They specialize in representing victims of negligence, ensuring they get rightful compensation. This article examines the essential role personal injury lawyers play in guiding individuals through their claims and aiding in their recovery.

Common Tactics and Defenses Insurance Adjusters Use in Personal Injury Cases

When dealing with personal injury claims, it is essential to be aware of the tactics that insurance adjusters use to deny, discredit, or delay your claim. Insurance companies employ various strategies to minimize the compensation they have to pay out. Here, we discuss some common tactics used by insurance adjusters and provide advice on how to protect yourself. For personalized advice, consider speaking with an Iowa personal injury lawyer.

Common Insurance Adjuster Tactics

Accessing Your Medical Records

One of the most common tactics used by insurance adjusters is requesting permission to access your medical records. While this may seem justified, it allows the adjuster to dig into your entire medical history, not just records related to the accident. They will look for any pre-existing conditions or previous injuries to undermine your claim.

Offering a Quick, Low-Ball Settlement

Insurance adjusters often offer a quick, low-ball settlement shortly after the accident, knowing that you might be desperate for any compensation. They will ask you to sign a full release, which means you forfeit the right to seek additional compensation if your medical condition worsens later.

Surveillance

Insurance companies may place you under surveillance to catch you performing daily tasks like taking out the garbage or mowing your lawn. They can use this footage out of context to argue that you are not as injured as you claim, potentially even initiating a fraud case against you.

Discouraging Legal Representation

Adjusters might try to persuade you not to hire a lawyer, promising that they will handle your claim fairly. They know that once an attorney is involved, it will be harder to use these tactics effectively.

Ways to Protect Yourself from Shady Insurance Adjuster Tactics

Being aware of your rights and educating yourself about the personal injury claims process is crucial.

Denial of Claim or Misinformation

If your insurance adjuster denies your claim or misinforms you about your coverage, carefully evaluate your original insurance policy. If you cannot locate it, insist on receiving a written copy. If the adjuster refuses, contact an attorney.

Medical Records Access

You have the right to refuse authorization for the release of your medical records. Only medical documents pertaining to the accident should be provided once you initiate a personal injury claim.

Surveillance Awareness

Assume you are being observed and follow your doctor’s advice. Avoid performing tasks without assistance, as this could be used against you.

Low Settlement Offers

Do not accept a low settlement offer. Have a reasonable compensation amount in mind and consult a lawyer before signing any agreements.

Filing a Bike Accident Claim to Recover Damages for Your Injuries

Bicycle accidents can result in significant injuries and damages. Filing a claim with an insurance company can help you recover compensation. Here’s a brief overview of the process and key considerations.

Determining Fault

Fault determination is crucial in a bike accident claim. If you caused the accident, file with your car insurance company. If another driver was at fault, file with their insurance. Even if you were on your bike, your car insurance policy might provide coverage.

Seeking Medical Help

Seek medical attention immediately after an accident. This is critical for your health and for establishing the compensation amount needed for your claim.

Documenting Medical Treatment

Document all medical treatments, including:
- Initial injury date
- Date of first treatment
- Injury occurrence details
- Doctor’s prognosis
- Treatment duration
- Medications and surgeries
- Appointment dates

Filing Your Claim

File your claim as soon as possible. Your insurance agent can guide you through the process. Always be truthful and consult an attorney before signing anything.

Proving Fault

Gather evidence to prove the other driver’s fault. Witness testimonies and documentation of the driver’s negligence, such as speeding or failure to yield, can be crucial.

Negotiating a Settlement

Do not accept the first settlement offer. Negotiate for a fair amount that covers your damages. An attorney can assist in this process.

Rules of Driving on the Road When a Pedestrian is Present

Motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians are common, often due to ignorance of the rules. Understanding these rules can help prevent accidents and establish liability in personal injury claims.

Iowa Rules of the Road Around Pedestrians

Motorists must give right of way to pedestrians when:
- Entering or leaving a driveway, parking lot, or alley
- Pedestrians are crossing at an intersection on marked or unmarked crosswalks without traffic signals

Special precautions should be taken in:
- Residential areas
- School zones
- Near shopping centers
- Parking lots
- Congested areas

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.