When you’ve been in an accident, whether it’s a car crash or slip and fall, the logical next step often seems to be contacting the insurance company, especially if it’s the at-fault party’s insurer. With user-friendly websites, mobile apps, and simple forms, insurance companies make it easy to file a claim on your own. You might even be told directly by the insurer that hiring a lawyer could complicate or delay your payout.
Here’s why involving a personal injury lawyer is often the best move, even when the insurance adjuster says otherwise.
How Insurance Companies Dissuade People from Getting a Lawyer
Insurers know that injury victims like you are more likely to settle quickly and for less money without legal guidance. Here are some common tactics they use to keep you from contacting a lawyer:
- “You’ll Get Less if You Hire a Lawyer” – Adjusters may suggest that a lawyer’s fees will eat up your settlement, implying you’ll receive less in the end.
- “We Can Resolve This Quickly Without Legal Complications” – They may claim that involving an attorney will slow down your claim or make it unnecessarily complicated.
- “Act Now, This Offer Won’t Last” – Insurance companies may create a false sense of urgency to pressure you into accepting a low offer.
- “Our Process is Easy; You Don’t Need a Lawyer” – Insurers emphasize DIY tools and “hassle-free” processes, making it seem like you can navigate this alone.
Insurance Companies Don’t Want You to Have Legal Help
Understanding the insurance company’s motivations can help avoid surprises and explain why they discourage you from consulting a lawyer:
- Their Goal is to Minimize Payouts
Insurance companies are businesses, and their priority is to protect their bottom line. Adjusters aim to close claims quickly and at the lowest cost possible, which often means giving you less than what your case may truly be worth.
- They Don’t Represent Your Interests
If you’re filing a claim against another person’s policy, the insurance company’s loyalty lies with their client, not with you. Their goal may be to deny their policyholder’s responsibility entirely or, at the very least, minimize the compensation they pay you.
- They Expect You to Settle for Less Without Legal Pressure
Without a lawyer, you’re less likely to push back on an initial settlement offer, which is often intentionally low. This is especially true if you’re unaware of the full value of your claim, including future medical expenses, lost income, and other long-term costs.
- Accepting a Settlement Often Waives Your Right to Sue
Accepting a settlement from the insurance company can come with strings. In most cases, once you accept their offer, you waive your right to pursue further legal action. This can make it difficult, if not impossible, to recover any more damages if you realize later that the settlement amount doesn’t cover all your expenses or future needs.
The Risks of Handling a Claim Alone
While the claims process might seem simple, it’s rarely as straightforward as it appears. Here’s why going it alone can cost you:
- Initial Offers are Often Lowball Offers
First offers rarely reflect the true value of your claim. Without a lawyer to negotiate, insurers may pressure you into a quick, low-ball settlement, which often doesn’t cover all your losses.
- Understanding the Full Scope of Your Claim
Claims involving injuries, property damage, and lost wages can be complex. You may need medical assessments, documentation, and an understanding of long-term costs to ensure your settlement is fair.
- Insurance Companies Sometimes Act in Bad Faith
Some insurance companies engage in unlawful practices. Bad faith insurance tactics include delaying claims without reason, pressuring you to settle quickly, refusing to respond, or denying valid claims.
If you suspect your insurer is acting in bad faith, contacting an attorney may be necessary. Not only will a lawyer advocate for you, but they’ll also identify any unfair treatment that could lead to additional legal action.
Hiring a Lawyer is Worth the Cost
Many people worry about attorney fees, but hiring a lawyer often leads to significantly better outcomes:
- Increased Settlements
Studies consistently show that people represented by attorneys receive larger settlements than those who handle claims alone. Attorneys can calculate the full scope of your damages, negotiate assertively, and pursue the maximum compensation.
- Protection from Lowball Tactics
Lawyers know the value of your claim and can recognize when an insurer is trying to undervalue it. They won’t be intimidated by common insurance tactics and can hold insurers accountable for a fair settlement.
- No-Risk Consultation
Most personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation, so you don’t lose anything by speaking to one. You can gain valuable insight into your case, understand your rights, and decide on the best next steps.
What If an Insurance Company Tells You Not to Hire a Lawyer
If an insurance company discourages you from hiring a lawyer, it’s likely a sign that they aren’t looking out for your best interests. However, there are ways to deal with insurance companies. By consulting an experienced attorney, you ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, we are here to advocate for you. Our experienced team can guide you through the claims process, handle communications with the insurance company, and fight for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
Don’t let an insurer intimidate you or take advantage of your situation. We are dedicated to ensuring fair treatment and standing up to any unfair practices.
You Have the Right to Consult a Lawyer
If you’re unsure, remember that speaking to a lawyer comes with no obligation. You have nothing to lose by scheduling a free consultation, where you can explain your situation, understand your options, and get an objective opinion about your case. An attorney can help you evaluate whether you’re on track for fair compensation or if you’d benefit from professional representation to advocate on your behalf.
While hiring an attorney might feel daunting, especially if the insurance company implies it would complicate things, having legal support often simplifies the process for you. An insurance company’s primary goal is to minimize payouts—not to do what’s best for you and your family. Relying on your own representation helps ensure that your needs are prioritized and that you’re better positioned to secure all the compensation you deserve.
Contact Kisling, Nestico & Redick at 1-800-HURT-NOW for a free, no-risk consultation. We’re here to protect your rights and help you move forward with maximum compensation.
