When it comes to insurance claims, it's important to remain calm and courteous. Writing a letter to the independent appraiser is a great way to explain why you think your settlement is not sufficient compared to what you calculated. Even if you're feeling frustrated, it's important to remain neutral and avoid helping the adjuster “gather the facts”. If you don't know something or don't feel comfortable answering a question, don't answer it.
It's best to defer filing any statement until you've hired an attorney and had a chance to talk with them. Our car accident lawyers have years of experience providing legal advice for these cases, so they understand the appraiser's tactics and the insurance claim process. Having an attorney on your side is the best way to scare off insurance companies or appraisers. Before anything else, review your car insurance policy to make sure you know what coverage is available to you. It's also important to do everything necessary to preserve your right to coverage. Keep all of your records in one place, whether it's paper documents or e-mail correspondence.
The more organized and documented your case is, the more respect the adjuster will have for your claim and the way you conduct your business. Assessors who process claims with people who don't have lawyers are often faced with emotional and unsuspecting plaintiffs. Using the powerful psychological technique of “reciprocity” can help support your claim. A good appraiser will appreciate it if you help them do their job more easily by documenting your claim correctly. In addition to contacting an attorney for help, there are some additional steps you can take if you disagree with your insurance adjuster after a car accident. The last thing an insurance adjuster wants is for you to hire a car accident lawyer to represent your interests.
Dealing with an insurance company after a car accident can be almost as stressful as the accident itself, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you can fight an insurance adjuster and win.
