After an accident, you expect the insurance company to do the right thing. You pay your premiums, and you trust that they will be there for you when you need them most. But what happens when the insurance company denies your claim, delays your payment, or offers you a settlement that is a fraction of what you deserve?
It’s a frustrating and disheartening experience, and it’s one that far too many accident victims face. Insurance companies are not in the business of paying claims; they are in the business of making money. They have teams of adjusters and lawyers whose job is to protect their bottom line.
When you’re up against a powerful insurance company, you need a powerful advocate in your corner. This is where a Wisconsin personal injury lawyer comes in.
Common Tactics Insurance Companies Use to Deny or Devalue Claims
Insurance companies have a variety of tactics they use to avoid paying fair compensation. Some of the most common include:
- Denying Liability: They may argue that their insured was not at fault for the accident, even if the evidence clearly shows otherwise.
- Disputing the Severity of Your Injuries: They may claim that your injuries are not as serious as you say they are, or that they were caused by a pre-existing condition.
- Delaying Your Claim: They may drag their feet, hoping that you will become frustrated and accept a lowball offer.
- Offering a Quick, Lowball Settlement: They may offer you a quick settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries, hoping you’ll take the money and run.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Fight for You
A Wisconsin personal injury lawyer is your champion in the fight against the insurance company. Here’s how we can help:
- Level the Playing Field: Insurance companies have teams of lawyers on their side. A personal injury lawyer levels the playing field and shows them that you mean business.
- Gather and Preserve Evidence: We will conduct a thorough investigation of your case, gathering all the evidence needed to prove liability and damages.
- Handle All Communications: We will handle all communications with the insurance company, so you don’t have to. This protects you from their tactics and allows you to focus on your recovery.
- Accurately Value Your Claim: We will work with medical and financial experts to determine the full value of your claim, including your future medical needs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Negotiate a Fair Settlement: We are skilled negotiators who know how to get the insurance company to pay what you deserve.
- Take Your Case to Trial: If the insurance company refuses to be fair, we are always prepared to take your case to trial and fight for you in court.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: The insurance company says I don’t need a lawyer. Is that true?
A: This is a common tactic used by insurance companies to discourage you from seeking legal representation. They know that people who have lawyers on their side typically receive significantly higher settlements.
Q: What if my own insurance company is the one denying my claim?
A: Even your own insurance company can act in bad faith. If your own insurer is not treating you fairly, a personal injury lawyer can help you hold them accountable.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: In Wisconsin, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident. It is crucial to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.
Don’t Let the Insurance Company Win. Contact a Wisconsin Personal Injury Lawyer Today.
You don’t have to fight the insurance company alone. The experienced and aggressive attorneys at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler have a long history of taking on insurance companies and winning. We know their tactics, and we know how to beat them.
We invite you to visit our homepage to learn more about our firm and our commitment to justice. When you’re ready to fight back, contact us online or call us at 608-784-4370 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us fight for you.