When You Get a “No” From Insurance – The Rodd Firm Thinks Outside the Box
After an accident, you might expect the insurance company to step up and cover your damages. But what happens when they say “no”? At The Rodd Firm, we believe a “no” from an insurance company isn’t necessarily always the final word. It’s often just the beginning. We’re committed to thinking outside the box to get our clients the compensation they deserve, even when the odds seem stacked against them. Here’s a recent example of how we did just that.
The Case: Denied Liability
Earlier this year, we handled a case involving a car accident in a residential parking lot. Our client was carefully backing into a parking spot when another driver sped around the corner and collided with their vehicle. The damage was significant, and our client suffered injuries, but when we sent a demand to the insurance company, they refused to take responsibility. Their reasoning? Because our client was backing up, they claimed the fault rested entirely on our client.
It was a frustrating and disheartening situation for our client, but we knew there was more to the story. The other driver was reckless, speeding in a parking lot where caution is necessary. We believed our client deserved fair compensation and weren’t about to let the insurance company’s denial stand.
Thinking Outside the Box
When the insurance company denied liability, many firms might have dropped the case. But at The Rodd Firm, we believe in going the extra mile. We decided to file in Magistrate, leveraging the scheduled hearing as a tool to press settlement discussions and challenge the insurance company’s position head-on.
After filing the suit and working through the legal process, we were able to secure a settlement that was nearly two times the medical bills. This wasn’t just a victory for our client – it was a testament to our firm’s commitment to thinking creatively and fighting for the people of Southwest GA.
Lessons Learned
This case reinforced some key principles that guide how we approach personal injury claims:
- Trust the Process and Your Team: At The Rodd Firm, we take a team-based approach to every case. Multiple attorneys collaborated on this case to craft a strategy that would give our client the best chance at a favorable outcome. By pooling our knowledge and experience, we were able to overcome the initial denial and secure a settlement for our client.
- Never Accept the First Offer: Insurance companies often offer settlements that are far lower than what victims deserve. Their goal is to close cases quickly and cheaply. But we know that our clients are worth more than a quick, lowball settlement. Or, in this case, they may deny payment altogether. By pushing back and pursuing legal action, we can often secure a settlement that truly reflects the damages and injuries sustained.
- Think Outside the Box: Just because a case seems challenging – or because the insurance company initially denies responsibility – doesn’t mean it’s unwinnable. In this case, the insurance company tried to pin the blame on our client for simply backing up. But we focused on the bigger picture: the other driver’s reckless behavior. By shifting the narrative, we were able to hold the right party accountable.
- Stay Focused on Helping People: We’re not just here to win cases. We’re here to help people. Our client in this case wasn’t just seeking compensation – they were seeking justice. By staying focused on that mission, we were able to secure a result they could feel good about. It wasn’t just about the money; it was about ensuring that they were treated fairly and that the truth was recognized.
What to Do When You Hear “No” From Insurance
If you ever find yourself in a situation where the insurance company denies your claim or offers you far less than you deserve, don’t panic. Here are some steps to take to ensure you’re on the right path:
- Stay Calm: A denial doesn’t mean your case is over. Insurance companies often deny claims or offer low settlements to test whether you’re willing to fight back. Stay calm and remember that you have options.
- Document Everything: Make sure you keep a thorough record of everything related to your accident. This includes medical bills, repair estimates, and any communication with the insurance company. If you have a police report, it can be a critical piece of evidence to support your claim.
- Consult an Attorney: The legal process can be complex and intimidating, especially when you’re dealing with an uncooperative insurance company. At The Rodd Firm, we have the experience and resources to tackle these challenges and fight on your behalf. Consulting an attorney early on can help you understand your rights and develop a strategy for moving forward.
- Be Prepared to Fight: Sometimes, getting what you deserve requires persistence. The insurance company’s first offer is rarely their best. Be prepared to go the extra mile – whether that means negotiating further or filing a lawsuit. With the right legal representation, you’ll have the support you need to keep pushing for a fair settlement.
We Don’t Take “No” for an Answer
At The Rodd Firm, we believe that every client deserves to be treated fairly, no matter what the insurance company says. We think outside the box, explore every option, and work together as a team to make sure our clients get the compensation they deserve.
If you or someone you know is dealing with a denied claim, don’t give up hope. The Rodd Firm is here to help. Our team is ready to fight for you, no matter how complex or difficult your case may seem.
If you’ve been injured in an accident and the insurance company is giving you the runaround, it’s time to take action.
Call us at (229) 421-7777 or visit our website to schedule your consultation. Let The Rodd Firm fight for your rights and help you move forward with confidence. We’re here for you, and we’re ready to take on the insurance companies, no matter how many times they say “no.”