Secrets of Accident Claims Against GEICO REVEALED!

Muhammad Ramadan | December 19, 2023 | Car Accident

Have you ever been in a car crash? Chances are, you’ve heard of GEICO. Yes, the same company that brings us those funny ads with a talking gecko and those cavemen. They’re famous for promising to save you money on car insurance. 

But when it comes to car accidents and insurance claims, there’s a side to GEICO that they might prefer to keep under wraps.

Let’s uncover some secrets GEICO might be keeping from you.

Think Twice Before Giving a Recorded Statement

After a car accident, GEICO might quickly ask you to give a recorded statement. But here’s an important piece of advice: you don’t have to record your statement right away. It’s often better to wait. Imagine you tell them you’re okay just after the accident, and later, you find out you have a serious neck injury.

GEICO might use your initial statement against you to offer you less money. It’s a good idea to speak with a personal injury lawyer first. They can help you with what to say to protect your claim.

Keep It Short and Sweet When Talking to GEICO Adjusters

When you’re on the phone with a GEICO adjuster, it’s best to keep the conversation short. All you need to give them is your name and the date of the accident. Don’t go into details about how you feel or what happened during the crash. If they ask for more information, simply say your lawyer will contact them.

The less you say, the less they can use in their favor. Getting a lawyer quickly is smart. They know exactly how to handle these talks. Letting your attorney take over means you won’t accidentally say something that could hurt your claim.

Understanding Medical Bills and GEICO’s Approach

You might expect GEICO to carefully check your medical bills before deciding how much to pay. But sometimes, they don’t. Instead, they might base their decision on what they think is a “standard” cost, which can be a lot lower than your actual bill. For example, if your X-ray costs $500 but GEICO believes it should only be $300, they might try to pay you the lower amount. It’s like they’re looking for a discount, and you end up getting less.

Remember, GEICO’s adjusters are just doing their job, but it’s important for you to make sure you’re protected. Don’t make it easy for them to pay you less than you deserve. Always double-check and have a lawyer ensure you get what’s fair for your medical expenses.

Discovering the Full Value of Your Accident Claim

You might think calculating your car accident claim is just about adding up your medical bills and car repair costs. However, it involves much more. 

A skilled lawyer can help you understand the full scope of your claim, including:

• Future Medical Treatments: Costs for any additional medical care you might need later.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for the money you couldn’t earn because the accident kept you from working.
• Transportation Costs: Expenses for getting around while your car is being repaired.
• Pain and Suffering: This includes the stress, emotional distress, and overall upset caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: Beyond just car repairs, this can include any personal items damaged in the accident.
• Reduced Earning Capacity: If the accident impacts your ability to work in the future.
• Quality of Life Changes: If the accident leads to long-term lifestyle changes or disabilities.

Remember, don’t quickly accept the first offer from GEICO. Their goal is often to settle claims fast and save money, not to ensure you’re fully compensated. Always discuss this with your lawyer first. You’ll often find that patience can lead to a much better settlement offer.

Picking the Right Lawyer for Your GEICO Claim

Dealing with a GEICO claim? It’s smart to have a good lawyer with you. The right lawyer knows exactly how insurance companies operate and their common tactics. They will clearly explain what your claim is really worth and how to fight for it effectively. With their deep knowledge of car accident laws, they are your key to securing a fair settlement.

What to Expect When You Have a GEICO Claim in Chicago, Illinois

Choosing a good personal injury lawyer is just the first step in your legal journey, especially if you’re dealing with a GEICO claim.

While each case is unique, here’s a typical roadmap of what might happen:

• First Meeting: You’ll talk about the accident with your lawyer to estimate your case’s value.
• Investigation: Your lawyer gathers evidence, such as photos or witness statements, to strengthen your case.
• Dealing with GEICO: Initially, your lawyer will handle your insurance claim with GEICO. If they can’t agree on how much money you should get, you might have to take legal action.
• Filing a Lawsuit: If needed, your lawyer takes care of starting a lawsuit.
• Discovery Phase: Both sides exchange details and evidence, often involving interviews and requests for documents.
• Negotiations: Your lawyer tries to negotiate a fair settlement with GEICO’s lawyers. If they can’t agree, it’s time to prepare for a trial.
• Trial: A judge or jury examines all the evidence and decides the outcome, including how much GEICO should pay.
• Possible Appeal: If the trial doesn’t go your way, your lawyer can appeal, asking a higher court to review the case. This process can be lengthy.
• Receiving Payment: If you win, you’ll receive the settlement or court-awarded amount.

Remember, dealing with GEICO claims can be complex and time-consuming, especially if your case goes to court. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer in Chicago will guide you through each step, aiming to make the experience as smooth as possible for you.

Why a Lawyer Is Essential After a GEICO Car Accident

Feeling lost dealing with insurance after an accident is normal. But you don’t have to handle it alone. A lawyer is like a knowledgeable guide through this tricky process. They take you through each step, making sure you receive enough money to repair your car, cover your medical bills, and take care of any injuries.

Here’s how a lawyer makes a difference:

• They’ll handle all communications with GEICO, so you don’t accidentally say something that could harm your case.
• They make sure every bill and expense is included, ensuring you get the full amount you need.
• They calculate the real value of your claim, considering lost wages, pain, and stress.
• They fight back if GEICO tries to underpay you.

Remember, most lawyers offer a free initial consultation. They can tell you if you have a strong case. Asking for help doesn’t cost anything and could lead to a much better outcome for your claim.

Contact Our Chicago Car Accident Law Firm For Help Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Chicago, Illinois, and need legal help, contact our experienced car accident lawyers at Attorneys of Chicago Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

We proudly serve Cook County and its surrounding areas: