One of the most important things that you will do after being injured in an accident is negotiate with your own or the at-fault party’s insurance company to recover compensation for your damages. Having to negotiate with an insurance company can be daunting, but some people may wonder whether they can do so without a lawyer to save money on legal fees. If you have sustained injuries and damage in an accident, understanding your legal rights and options to compensation is crucial to protect yourself and your future. To learn more and secure skilled representation in your case, contact an experienced Nueces County, Texas personal injury lawyer today.
Can I Negotiate With the Insurance Company Without a Lawyer?
Yes, you are legally permitted to negotiate with the insurance company without the help of a lawyer. There is no law in Texas that states that you must acquire the help of a legal professional before handling an insurance settlement. The insurance adjuster handling the case will likely reach out to you after the accident, and you can respond to them to negotiate your settlement.
However, while you are allowed to do so, it is not generally in your best interest.
Why Should I Hire a Lawyer During Negotiations?
Although negotiating with the insurance company on your own is possible, hiring a lawyer is highly recommended for a variety of reasons. It is important to remember that the insurance company is not on your side. They are in the business of making money and often try to offer low settlements to limit the amount they have to pay out, even if you are entitled to more. They may implement a variety of tactics to get you to accept a lowball offer, downplay your claim, or make you believe that the value of your case is lower than it is.
Your attorney will be skilled in personal injury law and understand the strategies that insurance companies often use. They will be able to better assess the details of your case to evaluate how much you deserve in compensation. Your lawyer will also have experience dealing with similar cases and know how to counter the efforts of the insurance company and negotiate for a settlement that you deserve.
It is also important to keep in mind that negotiating a settlement can take time and you are going to have to deal with communications while also balancing your everyday responsibilities like caring for your family, going to work, and recovering from your accident. Passing off this responsibility can take a huge task off your plate and ease the burden of the accident.
If you cannot reach a settlement and your case goes to court, it is also beneficial to have an attorney who is well-versed in your case to represent you. To learn more about the benefits of hiring a lawyer during insurance negotiations, contact Sahadi Legal Group today.