The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.2026-06-02T17:52:20Zhttps://www.meyerlawfirm.net/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1404267/2024/02/cropped-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.<![CDATA[Injured by an uninsured driver in Georgia? Your legal options explained]]>https://www.meyerlawfirm.net/?p=468202026-06-02T17:52:20Z2026-06-01T12:40:17ZLeveraging Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage
The primary mechanism for financial recovery following a collision with an irresponsible driver is your own auto insurance policy. According to state law, insurance providers in Georgia are legally required to offer Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage on every policy.
Unless you explicitly rejected this coverage in writing, you likely possess this protection. Crucially, utilizing your own UM coverage following an accident that was not your fault prohibits your insurance carrier from lawfully raising your premium rates.
Georgia law establishes that UM coverage defaults to an "Add-On" structure, meaning your personal policy limits attach directly on top of any existing coverage rather than being reduced by the at-fault driver's policy.
Exploring alternative recovery strategies
If your medical bills exceed your personal UM policy limits, your legal team must deploy alternative asset-recovery and tracing strategies to uncover funding sources:
Identifying resident relative policies: Georgia law allows for the stacking of specific policies. If you reside with a relative who owns an independent vehicle backed by UM coverage, your attorney may be able to tap into that policy to expand your total recovery pool.
Pursuing personal assets of the at-fault driver: If the uninsured driver owns real estate, corporate entities, or liquefiable investments, we can pursue a formal civil judgment, allowing for wage garnishments or property liens to fulfill your medical debt.
Investigating third-party corporate liability: If the uninsured motorist was operating a vehicle owned by a commercial employer, or if a mechanical defect contributed to the crash, a civil lawsuit can be initiated against those high-resource third-party corporate entities.
Stacking resident relative policies under Georgia insurance frameworks allows injured victims to aggregate multiple household UM limits to cover catastrophic medical bills.
Protecting your financial future
Attempting to negotiate with your own insurance company regarding a high-value UM claim can be surprisingly adversarial. Corporate claims adjusters routinely minimize payouts, dispute the clinical necessity of your medical treatments, or attempt to shift a portion of the blame onto you to reduce their exposure under Georgia’s comparative negligence rules.
Reviewing the statutory criteria for uninsured driver claims in Georgia is an essential first step toward evaluating your available policy limits. Do not let another driver’s financial irresponsibility dictate your medical recovery or force you into debt. Contact our experienced attorney today for a comprehensive legal consultation, so they can audit your policy and challenge the insurance adjusters.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.<![CDATA[Invisible car accident injuries: Why symptoms show up later]]>https://www.meyerlawfirm.net/?p=467682025-12-05T14:11:13Z2025-12-05T14:11:13ZAfter a car accident, you might walk away feeling shaken but otherwise fine. You tell yourself you escaped serious harm. Yet days or even weeks later, aches, dizziness or headaches begin appearing.
These are often invisible injuries, trauma that does not always present immediate symptoms but can have serious consequences if left untreated. Understanding why these injuries develop slowly and why prompt medical attention matters is crucial for your health and any legal claims in Georgia.
Common invisible injuries after a car accident
Invisible injuries can be tricky because they are not obvious right away. Even minor fender benders can trigger trauma that shows up later. Some of the most common delayed-onset injuries include:
Whiplash: A sudden jolt of the neck that can stretch muscles and ligaments, causing pain, stiffness and headaches days or weeks later
Concussions: Brain injuries may cause dizziness, memory problems or nausea without immediate signs
Soft tissue injuries: Strains or sprains to muscles and ligaments that worsen over time
Internal injuries: Damage to organs that may go unnoticed without proper evaluation
These injuries often appear later because the body initially reacts to shock and adrenaline. In other words, your nervous system can mask pain and swelling immediately after the accident. That is why early medical evaluation is critical, even if you feel fine.
Why early attention matters in Georgia
Prompt diagnosis and treatment protect both your health and your rights. Doctors can detect subtle injuries before they worsen and recommend therapies that speed recovery. From a legal standpoint, having medical records from the start strengthens your case if you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages or pain and suffering. Waiting until symptoms become severe may make it harder to connect them to the accident.
Protect yourself and your recovery
You might think no visible injuries mean no serious damage. However, delayed symptoms tell a different story. Listen to your body, schedule medical evaluations promptly and document all your symptoms. Acting early gives you the best chance to recover fully and preserve your legal options if the accident was not your fault.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.<![CDATA[Time matters after a car accident]]>https://www.meyerlawfirm.net/?p=467472025-05-27T18:34:11Z2025-05-27T18:34:11ZGetting into an accident can be overwhelming, but knowing how to manage time after an accident can make a big difference in your recovery and financial outcome. Acting quickly and efficiently is key to maximizing your recovery.
Get medical care right away
The first thing you should do is see a doctor. Acting fast can help you treat injuries before they worsen. Even if you feel fine, some injuries might not immediately show symptoms. Seeing a doctor soon after your accident is crucial for a few reasons:
It helps treat your injuries faster
Doctors can spot hidden problems before they get worse
It creates a clear link between the crash and your injuries
Early treatment often leads to better recovery
Don't underestimate the severity of your injuries or assume they'll heal on their own. A medical professional can provide a thorough evaluation and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Know your deadlines
In Georgia, there are deadlines for filing claims after a car accident. These deadlines are called statutes of limitations.
For personal injury claims, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
The deadline is usually four years for property damage, like damage to your car.
Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of a fatality.
If the accident involved a defective product, like a faulty car part, the deadline might be different.
While there are exceptions and special circumstances to consider, missing these deadlines means you could lose your right to sue.
Don't rush into decisions
While acting fast is important, do not be careless. Insurance companies might offer you a quick settlement, but it might be less than you deserve. Do not accept any offer before you know the full extent of your injuries and damages. Further, taking the time to meet with a lawyer before accepting a settlement offer can be wise. And be careful about speaking too quickly, as you could wind up admitting fault for the accident. Doing so can jeopardize your claim and any financial payout you might be eligible for.Taking the time to make smart decisions after a serious car accident can protect you from future problems. By working through the process deliberately and efficiently, you can maximize your financial recovery for damages after an accident.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.<![CDATA[Understanding workers’ compensation in Georgia]]>https://www.meyerlawfirm.net/?p=467422025-03-21T20:00:38Z2025-03-21T20:00:37ZWho gets covered?
In Georgia, any business with three or more employees, including part-time workers, must have workers' compensation insurance. Coverage starts on the first day of employment.
Reporting an injury
If you get injured at work, it’s important to report the accident to your employer immediately. You should inform your boss, foreman or supervisor. If you wait more than 30 days, you might lose your right to benefits.
Choosing a doctor
Employers must provide a list of approved doctors, which is called a "panel of physicians" and must include at least six doctors, one of whom is an orthopedic specialist. You can choose any doctor from this list for your treatment. If your employer uses a Workers' Compensation Managed Care Organization (WC/MCO), they will provide you with a list of approved medical providers and a 24-hour toll-free number to help you schedule appointments.
Benefits provided
Workers' compensation benefits in Georgia include:
Medical benefits: All necessary medical treatment related to the injury, including doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy and medications.
Income benefits: You may receive income benefits if you cannot work for more than seven days. These benefits are typically two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount that is currently $725.
Rehabilitation benefits: Services to help you return to work, such as physical therapy and vocational training.
Death benefits: If a worker dies due to a job-related injury, their dependents may receive benefits to cover funeral expenses and a portion of the worker’s lost wages.
Filing a claim
To file a workers' compensation claim in Georgia, you need to complete a form called WC-14 and submit it to the State Board of Workers' Compensation. You must also send a copy of the form to your employer and their insurance carrier.
Do you still have questions?
By understanding how the system works, employees can better navigate the process and secure the benefits. If you have more questions or need assistance, you can visit the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation website or contact a law firm that handles worker’s compensation claims applications and appeals.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.<![CDATA[How does truck driver fatigue contribute to motor vehicle accidents?]]>https://www.meyerlawfirm.net/?p=467282024-12-13T21:38:26Z2024-12-13T21:38:26ZHours of Service regulations
Truck drivers must adhere to Hours of Service (HOS) regulations to avoid fatigued driving. These rules limit driving hours to ensure drivers get adequate rest. Key HOS requirements include:
Truckers can only drive up to 11 hours after 10 consecutive off-duty hours.
Drivers must take a 30-minute break after driving eight straight hours.
They must maintain a log of their driving hours and breaks using electronic logging devices (ELDs).
These regulations aim to prevent fatigue-related accidents by ensuring drivers are well-rested and alert while on the road.
Why do many drivers violate these rules?
Despite the importance of HOS regulations, many truck drivers find themselves under stress to meet tight schedules. This pressure often comes from trucking companies and customers demanding timely deliveries, leading drivers to push beyond legal limits.
Additionally, some truck drivers may face financial incentives that encourage longer hours, making it difficult to adhere strictly to the regulations. These challenges underscore the need for systemic changes within the industry to prioritize safety over speed.
Holding negligent parties accountable
In commercial truck accidents, passenger vehicle occupants almost always bear the brunt of the impact. The injuries are often severe and the aftermath can be complex, involving multiple parties, including trucking companies, drivers, cargo companies and numerous insurance providers. Navigating this maze can be challenging for accident victims seeking compensation.
Skilled truck accident lawyers play a crucial role in holding negligent parties accountable. They understand the intricacies of these cases and work to ensure that those harmed receive the justice and compensation they deserve.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.<![CDATA[Premises Liability and Foreseeable Harm]]>https://www.meyerlawfirm.net/?p=460982024-06-18T19:12:22Z2023-11-14T07:32:26ZNational Safety Council – Injury Facts indicate that in 2022, over 6.84 million individuals were treated in hospital emergency departments for fall-related injuries. Georgia laws require property owners to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors against foreseeable harm or warn them against dangerous areas; however, some people fail to adhere to these laws. If a person is injured in an accident on another person's property due to the homeowner's negligence, they may be entitled to pursue damages.
At The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C., we're dedicated to offering trusted legal guidance and skilled representation to clients in their premises liability cases. Our experienced Georgia personal injury attorney can review all of your case details, help file your premises liability claims, and pursue your deserved financial compensation. We're proud to serve clients across Macon & Savannah, Bleckley, Bibb, Wheeler, Chatham, Houston, Twiggs, Dodge, Candler, and Peach, Georgia.
Premises Liability in Georgia
Under Georgia premises liability law, the owner or occupier of a land or property must make reasonable efforts to keep the place safe and prevent injuries or accidents to invitees or any person legally on the premises.
If a visitor or invitee sustains an injury as a result of the hazardous, defective, unsafe, or dangerous situation of the property, the victim may be eligible to hold the occupier or property owner responsible for their injuries through a premises liability claim.
Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations for premises liability claims in Georgia is two (2) years from the date of your injury. This means that you must commence a civil action to recover damages for your premises-related injury within two years of the incident.
Understanding Foreseeable Harm
Foreseeable harm means possible injury, harm, or accident that a reasonable person can anticipate or predict the dangerous consequences of the act. According to negligence law, every individual must act in a reasonably safe manner to avoid foreseeable risks of bodily injury or harm to others.
How It Applies To Premises Liability
As mentioned earlier, property owners and occupiers owe a legal duty of care to keep their premises in a reasonably safe condition for invitees. When determining whether a duty is owed, some kind of premises-related injuries, harms, or accidents may be considered as "foreseeable."
For example, if there are slippery surfaces in the compound, it is foreseeable that a visitor may slip and fall, then suffer an injury. Thus, it is the responsibility of the property owner to keep the premises reasonably safe by laying down rubber-backed carpets/mats or by simply changing the surface.
Other examples of incidents that a property owner may be able to foresee include:
A broken staircase that can make a visitor slip and fall.
A broken water pipe that could cause water leaks, water damage, or flooding.
Inadequate property maintenance that may lead to potential injuries to visitors.
Naked electrical wiring that can electrocute invitees in the house.
The property owner must fix these unsafe conditions or provide warning signs for guests on the property. Under Georgia laws, a person who causes foreseeable harm to someone else will be held responsible for the full extent of injuries, damages, and losses suffered by the victim.
Examples of Foreseeable and Unforeseeable Things
Examples of things that are foreseeable include:
Accidents are caused by another person's recklessness or negligence.
Ordinary negligence of a physician, nurse, or medical provider.
Injuries caused by rescuers.
Examples of things that may not be foreseeable include:
Private and public property negligence is similar in premises liability cases. Whether you were injured on private property (such as a local supermarket, grocery store, or residential apartment) or public property (such as public libraries, public playgrounds, or theme parks), you may be entitled to file a claim and seek damages from the negligent property owner, neighbor, supermarket owner, or government entity.
Get Help From an Attorney
Sustaining a premises-related injury can be difficult and emotional. However, you don't have to suffer the pain and financial liability all alone. At The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C., we're ready to represent clients in their premises liability claims. As your legal team, we will fight vigorously for your rights and help you pursue fair financial compensation to cover your premises-related injuries, damages, and losses.
Contact us at The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C., today to schedule a simple case evaluation with a practiced personal injury attorney. Our reliable lawyer can guide you through the complex procedures involved in filing premises liability claims and recovering damages. We proudly represent clients across Macon & Savannah, Bleckley, Bibb, Wheeler, Chatham, Houston, Twiggs, Dodge, Candler, and Peach, Georgia.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.<![CDATA[Are Parents Liable for an Accident Caused by Their Teen?]]>https://www.meyerlawfirm.net/?p=460782024-06-21T10:47:20Z2023-10-11T06:12:28ZThe Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C., we are dedicated to guiding individuals and families through stressful legal matters, including instances of teen drivers being involved in—or causing—car accidents. If you or your teenage son or daughter have been in an accident and need guidance regarding liability and your legal options, we are here to help. Reach out to our team today to schedule a consultation to discuss your situation.
We proudly serve clients in Macon and Savannah, Georgia, and anywhere throughout the counties of Bibb, Houston, Laurens, Chatham, Peach, Twiggs, Jones, Dodge, Telfair, Wheeler, Bulloch, Candler, and Bleckley.
Liability for Accidents in Georgia
Gaining a better understanding of your situation starts with becoming familiar with how car accident liability is handled in your state. The state of Georgia is a “fault state,” which means liability for the accident is assigned to one or more parties, and these parties will bear the financial responsibility for the accident.
When an accident occurs, the parties involved will typically go through their respective insurance providers—while often being represented by attorneys—to work through the claim process. Sometimes such claims can be negotiated and settled without litigation, but other times issues arise that lead to more serious legal matters.
Can Parents Be Held Liable for Accidents Caused by Their Teens?
While parents may not automatically be held responsible, there are three notable factors that must be considered when it comes to parents being held liable for an accident caused by their child:
Negligent Entrustment — If one or both parents allowed a teen driver to use their vehicle while knowing the child should not be entrusted to drive, this can lay a foundation for parents to face legal liability.
Signing Liability Agreement — For minor drivers, parents are required to sign documentation to accept liability in order for the teen to obtain a driver’s license.
Vicarious Liability — Under this legal principle, a parent may potentially be held liable if they directed the teen driver to perform a task on behalf of the family.
Each case is different, which is why no concrete guarantee can be made regarding parental liability. Consulting with an attorney will provide more clarity regarding your specific situation.
Will Insurance Cover the Expense?
In most cases, teen drivers are covered under their parents’ insurance policy, but you will need to contact your insurance provider and consult with your attorney to determine the specifics of your policy and how it affects your unique case.
Can a Parent Be Sued in a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
In short, the answer is yes. In many cases, if there is less insurance coverage available to pay for damages to the injured party, there may be an increased likelihood that a personal injury lawsuit could be an option—including holding the parents or legal guardians of the driver financially responsible.
Learn More About Your Legal Options
The aftermath of any car accident—whether you were responsible for it or not—can be difficult to navigate. When it was your teenage son or daughter behind the wheel, things can quickly become much more challenging and leave you wondering whether or not you can be held legally liable for the crash. With the help of an experienced law firm, you can maintain a level of peace of mind and confidence that your rights will be protected throughout the process.
When you are in need of legal representation or assistance in the wake of a car accident caused by your teenage driver, our team is ready to hear your story and explain all of the options available to you. If you are located in Macon or Savannah, Georgia—or throughout the counties of Bleckley, Candler, Bulloch, Wheeler, Telfair, Dodge, Jones, Twiggs, Peach, Chatham, Laurens, Houston, or Bibb—contact us at The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C. today to schedule a consultation.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.<![CDATA[The Importance of Witnesses to an Accident Settlement]]>https://www.meyerlawfirm.net/?p=460992025-06-16T14:29:08Z2023-09-19T06:35:51ZThe Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C. can help you find and interview witnesses to support your claim. We have offices in Macon and Savannah, Georgia, but serve accident victims throughout the state, including but not limited to Dodge, Houston, Candler, Telfair, Chatham, Bibb, Wheeler, and Bulloch.
How Can Witness Testimony Help My Accident Settlement?
After a car accident, your inability to prove that the other driver was at fault can become an obstacle during settlement negotiations. In some cases, it may be difficult to determine liability unless there is hard evidence such as photographs and videos. However, even when there is sufficient evidence to prove your side of the story, you may face a lot of pushback from the insurance company.
That is where witness testimony can come in handy. Statements provided by neutral parties who were present at the scene of the accident at the time of its occurrence can play a pivotal role in establishing liability and strengthening your case. Here are some of the ways witness testimony can help you in getting the settlement you deserve:
Add credibility to your claim. When witness testimony corroborates your side of the story, it can add credibility to your personal injury claim, which can positively affect your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
Provide a clear and unbiased picture of how the accident occurred. Often, parties involved in the crash are not able to judge their actions or the other party’s actions without bias. For this reason, witness testimony can provide an unbiased account of what happened.
Establish fault. If the witness saw how the accident occurred, their account of events leading up to the crash can be invaluable for establishing fault.
Provide information regarding the victim’s injuries. When the insurance company disputes the nature or severity of the victim’s injuries, witness testimony can be crucial in clarifying how the victim was affected by the crash and what visible injuries/symptoms they suffered at the scene.
As you can see, the importance of witness testimony in settlement negotiations for your personal injury claim cannot be overstated, especially when other types of evidence are not available or are not enough to prove your side of the story.
What Should I Ask Witnesses?
According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, car crashes were the second-leading cause of ER visits, hospitalizations, and injury deaths in the state in 2020. If you get hurt in a car accident, you may have a hard time obtaining compensation for your injuries and losses unless you have compelling evidence, which may include witness testimony, to support your claim.
When preparing your case, it is important to know which questions to ask your witnesses to ensure that their testimony is credible and corroborates your side of the story. Some of these questions may include:
In your own words, how did the accident occur?
How far away were you from the crash site when it happened?
What did you see shortly before and immediately after the crash?
What did you do after the accident?
Were there any other witnesses at the scene?
Where were you going and where were you coming from when the accident happened?
Asking the right questions can make a major difference between weak and strong testimony, which is why you might want to get assistance from an attorney when interviewing witnesses.
Knowledgeable Legal Assistance
When you are involved in an automobile accident, witnesses can play a crucial role in the claims process. Our skilled attorney at The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C. can help you use witness testimony strategically with the aim of strengthening your case and influencing the settlement in your favor. Get in touch today to request a free case evaluation and start collecting witness statements to build a strong case.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.<![CDATA[Three Important Reasons You Should Speak with a Car Accident Attorney]]>https://www.meyerlawfirm.net/?p=461022024-03-05T09:44:30Z2023-08-24T06:37:15ZThe Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C., we help clients and their families hold negligent drivers accountable in Macon, Savannah, Bleckley, Bibb, Candler, Houston, Bulloch, Laurens, Wheeler, Chatham, Telfair, Peach, Dodge, Jones, and Twigs, Georgia. We don’t accept the premise that no one is at fault for a car accident, and neither should you.
If you’re asking yourself, “Do I need to consult an attorney after a car accident?”, stick around. There are many reasons to speak with an attorney if you have been injured in a Georgia crash. The following covers three of the most important ones.
1. The Burden of Proving Negligence
No insurance company is going to hand you a settlement merely because you say its insured caused the crash that injured you. Every insurance company will demand proof, and that burden is on you.
Proving fault is not always easy. In fact, what does and does not appear in a law enforcement officer’s crash report may not only not help you but may actually hurt your claim. You must prove the other driver owed you a duty of care, that the driver breached that duty, that the breach caused an accident, and that you suffered injuries and damages as a result.
A skilled car accident attorney will know how to conduct a thorough accident investigation, and how to gather evidence and documentation that proves negligence.
2. The More Serious Your Injuries, the Tougher the Fight for Compensation
Serious and complex injuries need time to heal. Until you recover to the extent you can, you really do not know the true value of your claim. Once the negligent driver’s insurance company accepts fault, it is all about the numbers.
The insurance company will try to get you to settle your claim long before you reach maximum medical improvement. The insurer is hoping you will be desperate enough to cash out early. If you do, you risk getting far less compensation than your injuries are going to cost you.
Your personal injury attorney will also be able to quantify the damages you don’t get a bill or receipt for, such as compensation for the pain and suffering you have endured due to the crash, or your spouse’s loss of consortium due to your injuries.
3. The Need for Negotiation Skills and Experience
Negotiating settlements is a daily job for insurance adjusters and as such, they get quite good at it. Plus, they use many tried-and-true tricks to get you to settle too soon, accept a share of fault for the accident, to undervalue your injuries, and to contradict your version of events.
As an experienced personal injury attorney, Peter Meyer has seen every trick used, over and over again. We use that knowledge to negotiate a settlement from a position of strength. We also use it to guide and protect you throughout the claims process.
Adjusters may be seasoned negotiators, but so are we. They are trying to preserve the company’s profit margins. We think we are fighting the far better fight – garnering a settlement that fully compensates you for your losses.
What Questions Should I Ask Before Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney?
The relationship between you and your personal injury attorney must be rooted in trust. Therefore, you should spend the time necessary to visit with an attorney to gauge how much you trust them.
Ask questions about the attorney’s experience in representing clients involved in similar accidents with similar injuries. Ask the attorney if they are prepared to take your case to trial if you cannot reach a settlement with the insurer. Ask them if they handle personal injury cases on a contingency basis, meaning the attorney does not collect a fee unless you receive a settlement.
You should also ask the attorney how accessible they will be to you throughout the process, and who in the office will be working on your case. An attorney dedicated to providing personal attention to every client is the one you want to represent you.
Take Your Future Into Your Own Hands
You got into your car one day and ended up injured because someone else did or did not do what they are obliged to do. Your life has been upended and your future may seem a little less sure. With our experience and expertise, we can help you take your future back. It is what we do, day in and day out, for each person we work for.
If you have been injured in a car accident in Macon or Savannah, Georgia, or in any of the surrounding areas, talk to The Law Offices of Peter Meyer. Our consultations are free, so there is no reason to delay.
Contact our office now.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C.<![CDATA[What You Should Know Before the Insurance Adjuster Calls]]>https://www.meyerlawfirm.net/?p=461082024-06-18T19:59:17Z2023-07-06T06:42:18Zpersonal injury attorney can help you fight for fair compensation. At The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C. in Macon and Savannah, Georgia, we dedicate our time to supporting you throughout the insurance claims process.
In the meantime, it’s important to know what to say—and what not to say—to an insurance adjuster.
What Is the Insurance Adjuster’s Role?
After a car accident, you will most likely call your insurance company; if someone else was at fault, you may get a call from that person’s insurance company.
An insurance adjuster will probably urge you to settle early. They want to save their company money, so this settlement will likely be for a much lower amount than what your claim is actually worth.
Why You Should Refuse Requests for a Statement
The insurance adjuster may ask you to make a statement about the accident. It is unwise to give this statement for several reasons:
Anything you say can be used against you.
For example, if you answer “Okay” or “Fine” if they ask how you are today, they can argue that you aren’t as injured as you claim to be.
The insurance adjuster is looking for ways to reduce your compensation.
The insurance company can make it difficult to change your original statement later when you are trying to pursue your claim. For example, if you later find out that your injuries are more severe than you originally thought, they will argue that your original statement did not reflect this.
The insurance adjuster will try to make you contradict yourself.
For example, they may ask for a timeline of the accident a few times; if you answer slightly differently every time, they can claim that you misremembered details about the accident.
Again, the aim of the insurance adjuster is to minimize the amount that the company will have to pay.
You may be wondering if you even have to talk to an insurance adjuster. You are normally obligated to talk to your own insurance company after an accident, but there is no legal necessity for you to talk to someone else’s insurance company. They may, however, continue to call you until you talk to them. If you choose to speak with them, there are tactics you can use to minimize the information they receive and limit future calls. Always speak to your attorney first.
What to Say to An Insurance Adjuster
The following are tips on what to say to an insurance adjuster.
State that you do not give permission for them to record the conversation.
The insurance adjuster may ask to record your conversation—or they may not even ask. Their aim is to pin you down to an original statement that will prove that you don’t need a large payout. Verbally deny them permission to record. Doing so without your permission is illegal.
Don’t admit guilt.
Do not say that you might have been partially at fault for the accident, even if you think you were. If you admit any guilt, the insurance company will argue your claim.
Don’t answer questions if you don’t know the answer.
Don’t guess or offer possibilities if you’re not sure. Remember, anything you say can be used against you later.
Don’t volunteer additional information.
You can tell them your name, date of birth, home address, and very basic information about the accident (such as where the accident took place and the type of vehicles involved). Do not describe injuries in detail; say that you are still getting medically evaluated. Do not say anything about your work, income, or medical history.
Keep it brief.
For now, let the insurance adjuster know that you will only be talking briefly, and tell them not to contact you following this call.
Don’t sign anything before it’s reviewed by an attorney.
Eventually, your attorney will give the insurance company a detailed letter outlining your personal injury claim. Until then, do not sign anything.
What Information Will They Ask You to Provide?
The insurance adjuster will ask for identifying information such as your name, date of birth, and address. As outlined above, they will try to get details about the accident and about your injuries—all of which it is better not to give.
Let Our Firm Represent You
If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s important to contact an experienced car accident attorney to help you with the personal injury claims process. Our team at The Law Offices of Peter Meyer, P.C. has been helping clients win their personal injury claims for over two decades. Our attorney is committed to fighting for the remuneration you deserve.
Call us today for a consultation. We proudly serve clients in Macon and Savannah, Georgia, as well as Bibb, Houston, Laurens, Chatham, Peach, Twiggs, Jones, Dodge, Telfair, Wheeler, Bullock, Candler, and Bleckley, Georgia.]]>