If you’ve ever been involved in an accident—whether it’s a car crash, a slip-and-fall, or another unfortunate event—you may have experienced a situation where the insurance company reached out to you with an offer. While this might seem like a step toward resolution, it’s important to understand that insurance companies often hope you’ll handle the claim on your own, without involving an attorney. But why would they prefer that? The truth is, they know that hiring a lawyer could dramatically increase the amount of money you are entitled to, and that’s not in their best interest. Let’s take a closer look at why insurance companies don’t want you to hire a lawyer and why you should consider having one by your side.
1. Lawyers Know How to Maximize Your Claim
One of the most significant reasons insurance companies prefer you go without a lawyer is because attorneys are skilled in investigating cases and analyzing the full scope of the damages. Insurance adjusters may try to make a quick settlement offer, hoping you’ll accept before you fully understand the extent of your injuries or the long-term effects they could have. A lawyer, on the other hand, takes the time to thoroughly assess your case, including things like future medical costs, lost wages, and any pain and suffering you may endure.
For instance, if you were injured in a DUI-related accident, you may be entitled to additional damages, such as punitive damages, which the insurance company may not automatically offer. Without a lawyer, you might miss out on these opportunities. In fact, studies show that people who hire attorneys tend to receive significantly higher settlements compared to those who don’t. While you might be concerned about paying attorney fees, it’s often worth it because a lawyer can more than make up for their cost through a higher settlement.
2. Protection From Manipulative Insurance Practices
Another reason insurance companies want you to go it alone is that they can take advantage of individuals who don’t know the ins and outs of the claims process. An insurance adjuster may try to manipulate you into making a recorded statement or pressuring you into signing a release for your medical records. This can lead to the adjuster finding information from your medical history that may be unrelated to the current claim and using it to discredit you.
A skilled attorney knows how to protect you from these unscrupulous tactics. They ensure that your rights are safeguarded, and they won’t allow the insurance company to take advantage of you in ways that could harm your case.
3. The Threat of Litigation
Perhaps one of the biggest reasons insurance companies prefer you don’t hire a lawyer is the fear of a lawsuit. Attorneys are prepared to take your case to court if necessary. Insurance companies know that a lawyer who is serious about your case will not hesitate to file a lawsuit and pursue the matter in court if they aren’t offered a fair settlement. In contrast, most people without legal representation won’t follow through with litigation because the process can be overwhelming and complex.
The threat of litigation creates pressure on the insurance company to offer a fair settlement. Without a lawyer, however, they are less likely to feel that pressure and may try to settle for much less than you deserve.
Conclusion
While it might seem tempting to settle a claim quickly and without the hassle of hiring an attorney, it’s crucial to understand the reasons why insurance companies prefer this route. Lawyers not only help ensure you get the maximum compensation for your injuries, but they also protect you from manipulative tactics and are not afraid to pursue litigation when necessary. If you’ve been injured, don’t leave your future to chance—consulting an experienced attorney could make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
