In the event you are harmed due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek a monetary award by filing an insurance claim. However, many personal injury victims find it challenging to recover all the damages they’re entitled to. This is because insurance companies are known for trying to minimize the amount they’re responsible for paying out. Fortunately, the residents of Sparta, WI, can rely on the legal team at Arndt Buswell & Thorn S.C. to protect their best interests and fight to maximize their compensation. 

Here, they go over a few ways a claim adjuster may attempt to reduce your settlement:

• Deny Liability: Adjusters will review a variety of elements, including police reports, witness testimony, and photographs of the scene of the incident, in an effort to find evidence you contributed to your own injuries. Denying liability will relieve the insurance company of any obligation to compensate you. If this happens, you may be able to file a lawsuit. 
• Ask for Medical Authorization: Some insurance claim adjusters ask victims to sign a medical authorization. If you agree to this, it will give them access to all your medical records. In turn, they have the ability to search for any indication of past health problems or pre-existing conditions that could be used to create doubt about the validity of your current injuries. It’s crucial not to sign anything until you consult a lawyer.
• Request a Recorded Statement: Insurance companies train their adjusters to request a recorded statement from personal injury victims as soon as possible after an accident occurs. Though it may seem like you’re simply giving them your version of events, there is potential for anything you say to be misconstrued and turned against you. It’s best to decline any request you receive for a statement.
• Offer a Quick Settlement: Finally, it’s common for adjusters to offer a nominal settlement shortly after the accident takes place. This might happen even before you have the chance to realize the severity of your injuries. Many people make the mistake of accepting this first offer and unknowingly agree to release the company from any future financial obligations. If you do this, you will be unable to pursue additional damages, even if your claim ends up being worth significantly more.

A personal injury lawyer from Arndt Buswell & Thorn S.C. will thoroughly evaluate the circumstances surrounding your injuries to determine what the case is worth. Since 1991, they have been helping clients successfully negotiate with insurance adjusters. Contact the Sparta law office at (608) 269-1200 or the Bangor location at (608) 486-2324 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more.