Insurance companies in Maryland evaluate claims as part of their business operations, which may include reviewing ways to limit claim payouts. If you have recently gotten into a car accident, here are some of the common tactics they may use to reduce your compensation.
Using your statement against you
You will likely get a call from the insurance adjuster after an accident. They may try to get your statement under the pretense of routine. The problem with such interactions is that they might frame questions in such a way that answering them could reduce your personal injury claim.
Tip: Since there is no legal requirement for you to give a statement to the at-fault driver’s insurance company, you can choose to do so after consulting with a personal injury attorney.
Passing the blame
Since Maryland is a contributory negligence state, they may try to shift the blame onto you. If they succeed in proving that you were at least 1% at fault, you might not get any compensation whatsoever.
Tip: Make sure you don’t issue any statement that might insinuate an admission of fault.
Rushing to an early settlement offer
It is one of the oldest tricks in their book. Immediately after the accident, they might approach you with an early settlement offer. Such deals could prove to be disadvantageous to you even though they appear more than enough at that moment. Since some symptoms may not become apparent until days or even weeks after the accident, it is too early to make any estimation. If you jump the gun and take the offer, you might lose the opportunity to cover the full extent of your damages.
Tip: Wait for a detailed medical report and get it reviewed by an attorney before accepting any settlement offer.
How may a legal guide help
If you are planning to get all your damages covered, a detailed analysis of your case is required. Your medical report, evidence and other documentation play a huge role in determining your compensation. To review all of them and to aim for a fair settlement, having a legal guide in your corner can be helpful.