Dispute the Cause of the Injury

There are some pedestrian accidents where the insurer really cannot deny liability. For instance, if you were in a green-lit crosswalk and the driver hit you. The insurance company may argue that your injuries were pre-existing and caused by something else. That is why it is VITAL to go to the ER as soon as you can after you are hit. Do not wait a day. Go right away and have a doctor document your injuries and therefore connect them to the accident.

Ask for Recorded Statement

After any pedestrian accident, the investigator for the insurance company will call you to get a recorded statement. For instance, often they might be looking for a way to get out of liability. Therefore, you don’t need to agree to have a phone conversation with the other insurance company recorded. Have your pedestrian accident attorney handle this for you.

Premature Settlement

If liability is clear, the insurance company may offer a fast settlement. This is going to be a low offer. The process is intended to resolve the case before you finish your medical treatment or get a lawyer. Therefore, do not agree to settle the case until you are sure your medical treatments are complete. Your body has to be healed as much as you are going to heal before talking a case closure.

Contest the Severity of Injury

Many insurance companies like to use the phrase “low impact collision”. It is intended to distract the injured people. Because of that phrase, they will try to get you to take that low settlement. However, even if you don’t have personal injury attorney on your side, don’t “fall for it”. Always keep in mind that pedestrians have no protection when hit by a vehicle. Therefore, a car going 3-5 MPH can cause severe injury.

Always talk to The Herron Law Firm after a pedestrian accident.

Never attempt to negotiate a pedestrian accident settlement on your own.
Always Consult Oregon's Best Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Always Consult Oregon’s Best Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Part 1: What Insurance Companies Do To Reduce Payouts?

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