Garner Personal Injury Attorneys

Accidents and injuries can suddenly disrupt lives. During these challenging periods, personal injury lawyers are essential. They focus on representing individuals harmed by negligence, ensuring they get the compensation they deserve. This article delves into the crucial role personal injury lawyers play in guiding individuals through their claims and helping them rebuild their lives.

Common Insurance Adjuster Tactics

Accessing Your Medical Records

Insurance adjusters may seek permission to access your medical records, which seems reasonable at first glance. However, this tactic allows them to scrutinize your entire medical history, not just the records related to your accident. They can use past conditions, treatments, and even minor illnesses to undermine your claim and reduce the compensation you receive.

Offering Quick, Low-Ball Settlements

Adjusters often offer quick, low-ball settlements, knowing that you might be desperate for immediate compensation. They will ask you to sign a full release, which prevents you from seeking additional compensation if your medical condition worsens later.

Surveillance

Insurance companies may place you under surveillance to catch you performing daily tasks, such as taking out the trash or mowing the lawn. They can use this footage to argue that you are not as injured as you claim, potentially initiating an insurance fraud case against you.

Discouraging Legal Representation

Adjusters may try to dissuade you from hiring a lawyer by promising fair treatment. They know that an attorney can effectively counter their tactics and help you obtain a fair settlement.

Ways to Protect Yourself

Know Your Rights

Educate yourself about your rights and the personal injury claims process. Being informed can help you navigate the tactics used by insurance adjusters.

Evaluate Your Insurance Policy

If your claim is denied or you are misinformed about your coverage, carefully review your original insurance policy. If you can't locate this document, request a written copy from the adjuster. If they refuse, contact an attorney.

Refuse Broad Medical Authorizations

You have the right to refuse broad authorizations for the release of your medical records. Only medical documents pertinent to the accident should be shared.

Assume You Are Under Surveillance

Always assume you are being observed and follow your doctor's advice. Avoid performing tasks that could be used against you.

Avoid Low Settlements

Resist the temptation to accept quick, low-ball settlements. These offers often do not cover the full extent of your injuries. Have a reasonable compensation amount in mind and consult with a lawyer before signing any agreements.

Road Bike Safety Tips for New Cyclists

Safety Tips

- Learn Local Laws: Each city and state has specific traffic laws for cyclists. Familiarize yourself with these rules to stay safe and compliant.
- Practice in Safe Areas: Before venturing into traffic, practice maneuvering your bike in safe areas without cars.
- Take a Safety Course
- Ride with Traffic: Always ride in the same direction as traffic, and stay as far to the right as practicable if no bike path is available.
- Wear a Helmet: A helmet is essential for every trip, without exception.
- Stay Visible: Wear reflective clothing and use lights, especially at night. Bright clothing during the day enhances visibility.
- Avoid Earbuds: Stay alert to the sounds of traffic by avoiding earbuds while riding.
- Be Aware of Surroundings: Pay attention to what cars around you are doing and try to make eye contact with drivers.
- Avoid Blind Spots: Do not ride in drivers’ blind spots and leave room between yourself and parked cars to avoid being doored.
- Check Your Bike: Ensure your bike is in good repair before hitting the road.

Do You Have to Accept the Insurance Company's Settlement?

Considerations

- Severity of Injuries: If your injuries are minor, you might settle the case on your own to avoid attorney fees.
- Subrogation: Understand who will reimburse your medical bills if they have been paid by health insurance or another party.
- Statute of Limitations: Be aware of the time limit for filing a claim to avoid receiving nothing.

Settlement Negotiations

- Negotiate Wisely: The first offer from an insurance company is rarely the best. Negotiate but be mindful of what you disclose.
- Know Your Facts: Be clear about how the injuries occurred, the treatments received, and the diagnosed conditions.
- Stay Professional: Avoid threatening the adjuster. Being polite can lead to better outcomes.

Evaluating a Claim's Value

Consider factors such as the extent and nature of the injuries, required medical treatments, lost work time, and available insurance coverage. It is advisable to consult with a qualified Iowa injury attorney to ensure you are not taken advantage of.

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.