There are multiple steps to the typical claims process. Sometimes a single misstep could cause a given claim to have an undesirable outcome.
• Actions that a claimant should not consider trying
• Holding back from a hired personal injury lawyer in Ajax every fact that relates to the injury-causing accident.
• Holding back those pieces of information that relate to the sustained injury
• Neglecting to share with hired lawyer a new mailing address or a new email address
• Going online and sharing facts about the accident with those that have clicked on to a social media network.
• Signing a form that has been presented by the insurance company, when no lawyer is present.
• Choosing to accept an adjuster’s initial bid.
• Not paying close attention to the date on the calendar, so that there is a greater chance for missing the deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit.
Words to be avoided
At time of accident, the victim should not utter a phrase like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see.” The opposing party might infer that there is evidence of shared fault. During the first phone conversation with the adjuster, the claimant should avoid providing detailed information on his/her injuries. Adjusters listen for reference to some word that could be used to cast doubt on the veracity of the claimant’s statement.
When inquiring about a delayed response to a counteroffer, a claimant should not use curt of unkind language, in hopes of spurring the adjuster to carry out the desired action. Instead, it is best to refer to some challenge or struggle that has made the victim’s life harder. It is all right to say, “I don’t know,” in answer to a question, instead of guessing at an answer.
Actions that can help a claimant to win his/her personal injury case
Attaching a picture of the damaged vehicle to a demand letter
Going to all of the scheduled medical appointments
Following the directions given by the treating physician, including any order to take a certain medication.
Match the correct words and actions with the ideal attitude.
Be persistent without being rude. Be assertive, but not aggressive. Show that you appreciate the fact that an adjuster’s schedule is very full. Still, you have reason to expect delivery of any promised services.
In other words, strive to demonstrate an attitude of both patience and persistence. Demonstrate patience during the negotiations, by not accepting the adjuster’s initial bid. Demonstrate persistence, whenever an anticipated reply has not come from the adjuster’s office.
Communicate in writing with the claims office and seek confirmation of any settlement agreement that has been made during a phone conversation. Then do not hesitate to cooperate with an adjuster’s request for delivery of a signed release form.
