California Car Accident Claims: What to Do When the Insurance Company Won’t Pay

Injured California motorists sometimes choose to pursue an insurance claim independently, especially in cases where the other party was clearly at fault, such as drunk driving collisions or accidents with solid supporting evidence like police reports and eyewitnesses.

Most people believe that clear liability will lead to a fair settlement without complications, so they count on their insurance companies to do the right thing. Unfortunately, that isn’t always true.

At Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP, our Whittier personal injury attorneys know that dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be stressful and frustrating.

Here, our Los Angeles County auto accident and injury lawyers discuss why the insurance company isn’t taking your claim seriously, the information that should be collected early, and highlight some of the early signs when crash victims should consult an attorney.

Why Isn’t the Insurance Company Taking Your Car Accident and Injuries Seriously?

After being the victim of a car crash with injuries, it’s easy to assume that your auto insurance company will work in your best interest. However, the reality is that insurance companies are profit-driven businesses. Their primary goal is to minimize payouts, even for policyholders who have been paying premiums for years. When you file a claim, the insurance adjuster will often look for ways to downplay the severity of your injuries or reduce the compensation you deserve.

The most common reasons the insurance company will give for dismissively handling your claim may include, but are not limited to:

• Lack of Evidence: If the claimant doesn’t provide sufficient documentation to prove their injuries or the accident, such as police reports, medical records, or photographs, the insurance company may question the claim’s legitimacy.
• Delayed Medical Treatment: When a claimant doesn’t seek medical attention immediately after an accident, it raises doubts about the severity of their injuries. Insurance companies may argue that the injuries were unrelated to the accident or aren’t as serious as claimed.
• Minimal Vehicle Damage: If the accident caused only minor damage to the vehicle, the insurer may argue that it’s unlikely the claimant sustained serious injuries. They often downplay claims based on the assumption that minimal damage equals minimal injury.
• Inconsistent Statements: Any inconsistencies in the claimant’s version of events or medical reports can lead to the insurer questioning the claim’s credibility, potentially dismissing or undervaluing it.
• Failure to Involve Legal Representation: Insurers know that claimants without legal counsel are often less knowledgeable about the claims process. As a result, they may try to settle for less or delay proceedings, assuming the claimant won’t push back.

Starting your auto accident claim on the right track means being fully prepared for the insurance company’s tendency to take a dismissive approach toward your case. Start by gathering key evidence early to prepare for the next steps.

Gather Documentation Associated with the Crash and Your Injuries

Compiling all necessary documents related to the accident is crucial when filing an auto insurance and injury claim.

This includes:

• Police reports.
• Medical records.
• Repair estimates.
• Photographs from the scene.
• Witness statements.

However, even with supporting evidence, many insurance companies will try to offer a low settlement, hoping you’ll accept without further negotiation. Never settle without consulting an attorney or evaluating all your damages. Working with an experienced California personal injury attorney is often the most effective way to ensure you receive fair treatment.

What Are the Early Signs I Need to Contact a Skilled California Car Accident and Injury Attorney?

Recognizing the early signs you need to consult with an attorney can make all the difference in protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve after an accident.

They include, but are not limited to:

• Denial of Liability: If the other party or their insurance company denies fault for the accident, it’s a clear sign that legal assistance may be necessary to prove liability and protect the claimant’s rights.
• Low Settlement Offers: When the insurance company offers a settlement that doesn’t fully cover medical expenses, lost wages, or property damage, it’s essential to consult an attorney to negotiate fair compensation.
• Severe Injuries: If the accident resulted in serious or long-term injuries, an attorney can help ensure that all current and future medical costs, as well as pain and suffering, are correctly accounted for in the claim.
• Disputes Over Coverage: If the insurance company disputes the extent of coverage, such as what treatments are necessary or what damages should be covered, an attorney can help clarify the policy and advocate for the client’s rights.
• Delayed or Denied Claims: Unexplained delays or outright denial of a claim by the insurance company are strong indicators that legal advice is needed to resolve the issue.
• Pressure to Settle Quickly: When an insurance adjuster pressures the claimant to settle quickly, especially before the full extent of the injuries is known, it’s a red flag to consult with an attorney before accepting any offer.

These signs suggest that your best interests may not be fully protected, making it crucial to seek legal guidance. We can help.

Contact Our Skilled Auto Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

If you have yet to file a claim or have already filed an insurance claim with the provider and are not realizing the results you believe you should, call (562) 698-6446 to schedule a free consultation or contact our skilled auto accident and injury attorneys online in Los Angeles County for help.

We can help you understand your legal rights and options to pursue the best outcome for your unique claim.