Rights of Policyholders During Car Accident Insurance Investigation

During an insurance investigation of a car accident, policyholders have the right to fair treatment, clear communication, and a prompt, effective investigation.

Last year, there were more than 120,000 car accidents reported in Arizona. In case you or someone you love becomes a part of that statistic, it’s important to know your rights. An experienced car accident attorney in Phoenix like Gage Mathers can help.

Why Insurance Companies Conduct Investigations

Anyone who has ever dealt with an insurance company can tell you that they want to pay as little compensation as possible. Calculating fault and damages are two of the most common reasons for car accident insurance investigations.

Intense investigations are more likely the larger the potential payouts and damages involved, but if you’re in an accident, you should always be ready for the insurance companies to look into the details and come to their own conclusions.

Knowing Your Rights

When you file a claim with your insurance company, you’re entitled to a set of protections regardless of the severity of the accident.

You have the right to:

• A clear explanation of your coverage
• Copies of documents related to the claim
• An investigation completed in a reasonable amount of time
• Updates when requested
• An explanation of the payout

You are also not obligated to answer questions that fall outside the scope of the investigation. Questions (such as those about your lifestyle or hobbies) unrelated to the accident can be declined.

Furthermore, your insurer cannot ignore evidence you provide. Repair estimates, witness statements, photographs, and medical bills you submit to the insurance company must be included in their review of the case.

When Insurers Work Against You

To keep their payouts low, insurance companies might use a number of tactics.

Some adjusters will drag out the process, knowing that people injured in accidents might be more willing to accept less money the longer they are forced to wait. On the opposite end of the spectrum, an insurance company might try to advance an investigation quickly, hoping to pressure a victim into accepting a payout before the full cost of damages (such as delayed medical issues) come to light.

If the suggested compensation feels low, ask the adjuster to explain it. You should be able to clearly understand how they arrived at their estimate. If you can’t, it might be time to get a lawyer.

When You’re Feeling Outmatched

To ensure your rights are honored and you get the compensation you deserve, don’t go it alone. Reach out to Gage Mathers today to see what it’s like to have an expert on your side!

We’ll make sure every detail is considered, including how accident location affects investigations. Our experience in defending those who have been injured ensures the insurance company won’t be the only one in the room who’s an expert.

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 24 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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