Getting into a car accident is a nightmare scenario for any driver. But what happens when you’re not at fault, and the responsible party’s insurance refuses to pay for the damages? It’s a frustrating and unfair situation that many people find themselves in.
However, there are steps you can take to fight back and get the compensation you deserve. From gathering evidence and filing a complaint to seeking help from a Sunrise car accident lawyer, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to navigate this challenging situation.
Let’s explore the common reasons why an insurance company might deny your claim and discuss the steps you can take to fight back.
Why Insurance Companies Won’t Pay for a Car Accident
When an insurance company refuses to pay after a crash, it can be frustrating and overwhelming for the victim.
Insurance companies are in business to make a profit. The less they pay out to claimants, the better off they are. However, there can be specific ways they attempt to get out of paying full and fair compensation when it is owed.
Here are some examples:
Fault and Liability Questions
One common reason for this refusal is if the insurance company believes that the policyholder was at fault or partially at fault for the accident.
They may argue that you were driving recklessly, were under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or violated traffic laws. In such cases, the insurance company might deny the claim or offer a reduced settlement amount.
Questions About the Origin or Severity of Injuries
Another reason why an insurance company may refuse to pay after a crash is if they believe that the injuries sustained by the victim are not directly related to the accident. Insurance companies often have their own team of experts who evaluate medical records and assess whether the injuries were pre-existing or caused by something other than the accident.
If they determine that there is not enough evidence to establish a direct link between the injuries and the crash, they may reject or reduce compensation.
In both cases, it is important for injury victims to thoroughly understand their rights. A car accident attorney can help defend your rights and fight against insurance companies that are unwilling to pay.
Insurance Company Tactics Designed to Reduce or Deny Payment
When insurance companies try to lower or deny motorcycle accident settlement payouts, they may do some of the following:
- Use the injured claimant’s comparative negligence as an argument to lower the amount of money that will be paid out.
- Delay discussing or responding to settlement requests to make the process take longer, putting accident victims in a financial bind.
- To discredit claimed costs, they may question whether or not medical care was necessary and debate the cause of your injuries.
- Offer an extremely lowball offer for a settlement well below the full extent of possible damages, with the hope the injury victim will accept it and walk away.
- Coerce victims without legal representation into accepting inadequate compensation without proper representation.
- Refuse to pay for clear losses by citing vaguely technical policy exclusions.
- Avoid paying enough or any money at all for subjective types of injuries like pain and suffering.
- To deflect blame, they may attempt to cast doubt on the victim’s honesty or character
An auto accident attorney can defend you against these tactics and advocate on your behalf to avoid some of these obstacles.
That’s why it’s so important to have a lawyer who is familiar with how adjusters operate to defend your rights and steer negotiations in a fair direction.
Remember, PIP Pays First in Florida
In Florida, regardless of who is at fault in a car accident, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage is considered primary when it comes to covering medical expenses and lost income.
This means that even if the other driver caused the accident, you will initially rely on your own PIP coverage rather than depending on the other driver’s insurance to cover your expenses. However, there may be situations where additional compensation can be sought from the at-fault driver’s insurance.
A Weston personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options. Compensation may be available through a personal injury lawsuit or by filing a claim directly with their insurance company.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney to Learn What to Do If Their Insurance Won’t Pay After a Crash
While it may seem overwhelming, remember that you have rights as a victim, and Winston Law can help you in your fight for justice. Don’t let the insurance company intimidate you or make you accept a settlement that is far from fair.
By speaking with a skilled Weston car accident lawyer and knowing your rights, you may increase your chances of receiving the compensation you need to move forward from this unfortunate incident.
There is no cost or obligation to learn more about how we can help you with your claim. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.