Broomfield Insurance Dispute Lawyer

How Do You Initiate the Insurance Claim Process?

You will initiate the claims process by sending the other party’s insurance company a demand letter. The demand letter outlines your strongest arguments to the insurance company. In it, you will provide details about your injuries, medical costs, additional damages, and especially, why their client is responsible for your injuries. Conclude your letter with a demand for a lump sum to settle your entire claim.

The rest of the settlement process may consist of nothing more than a few phone calls with a claims adjuster. During the first call, you and the adjuster will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the points you made in your demand letter, and then the adjuster may offer you a settlement amount considerably lower than the one you requested. You can counter with a higher amount that is a little below your initial offer. This process may continue for a while until a settlement can be reached, and an insurance dispute lawyer in Broomfield can help you negotiate these terms.

How Much Should You Ask For in a Settlement Demand?

In your demand letter, it is advisable to ask for a reasonable amount, but an amount higher than you actually expect to receive. Before negotiations begin, have a settlement figure in mind that you are willing to accept. Don’t jump at the first offer given, and be prepared to make the adjuster give solid reasons for a low settlement offer. However, also be open to accepting a reduced amount if the adjuster brings up valid points you may not have considered.

Be sure to emphasize the emotional aspects of your injuries, but don’t rehash the factual details of the accident during negotiations. Even though emotional factors cannot be assigned a dollar value, they can go a long way toward making your case. For instance, if your ability to care for your child has been diminished due to the accident, that point is definitely worth emphasizing.

Once a settlement figure has been agreed on, be sure to confirm it in writing immediately. Send a brief email to the adjuster stating the settlement amount, what the settlement covers, and the date you can expect to receive the settlement check from the insurance company.

Regardless of whether you decide to represent yourself, there are a few tips everyone should remember after they’ve been in an accident:

• Document the accident scene and any injuries with pictures
• Get the necessary medical treatment as soon as you can
• Obtain a copy of the police report for your records
• Never give a recorded statement to the insurance company
• Don’t discuss the accident on social media- your comments and pictures can be used to ruin your case
• Be sure to understand the statute of limits for your type of case

You do not have to deal with this complex situation alone. Our insurance dispute lawyers in Broomfield can make sure all evidence is handled and settlement negotiations progress fairly.

Contact Our Experienced Broomfield Personal Injury Lawyers