Each year thousands of drivers find themselves dealing with expenses stemming from a collision. These accidents often result in not only damage to vehicles but also personal injury. Since ICBC has a near-monopoly in British Columbia’s auto insurance industry, it is no wonder they would try to protect their interests. ICBC accident claim adjusters aim to pay out as little for each personal injury claim as possible. For that reason, there are some things ICBC does not want you to know when filing a claim:
Not Seeking Medical Attention Can Hurt Your Case
The compensation you receive from ICBC may be significantly affected by medical reports. Therefore, it is always recommended that you seek medical attention after your accident, even if you do not believe your injuries are serious. Injuries may appear or worsen over time. If you do not see a doctor and symptoms later appear, ICBC may claim that your injuries were not as a result of the accident. So, if you do not require emergency medical care after an accident, visit your family doctor for a check-up. If you do not have a family doctor visit a clinic. However, ensure the doctor you see initially is the same doctor you see for any follow-up visits.
The accident claim adjuster is not on your side
Your claims adjuster will be looking for anything that will work in ICBC’s favour in lowering your compensation or denying your claim altogether. Phone calls are recorded, and heavily scripted, so you should take great when discussing any details of your accident. You must also avoid saying anything that may be misconstrued as an admission of fault. Instead, focus solely on the facts of the incident. If it is found that you are even partly responsible for the accident, it will not only affect your claim but could also cause your premiums to increase.
The claims adjuster may also pressure you into meeting with them in person, but you are not required to do so. Without the guidance of an ICBC claims lawyer, many individuals fall prey to this trap and find themselves in an impossible situation.
You must be careful when signing documents
Any information, remark or description provided to ICBC during the claim process may be used in evaluating your claim. After compiling all the information or details of your case, your claims adjuster will prepare an official statement which they may ask you to sign. You are not required to present the ICBC with a signed statement. The only document you are required by law to sign is a claim form. If you are unsure about affixing your signature to a document you’ve been given by a claims adjuster, consult an ICBC claims lawyer for clarification.
You should seek Legal advice
While you are not required to hire a car accident lawyer when filing an ICBC claim, it is always wise to seek the help of a legal professional who is experienced in dealing with cases such as your own. When you consult an ICBC claims lawyer, they will help you to avoid any mistakes and help you to achieve the best possible outcome.
Are you searching for an ICBC accident claim lawyer in Surrey?
If you need a Surrey car accident lawyer to help with an ICBC claim, contact the capable and experienced legal team at Nirwan Law Corporation. At Nirwan Law Corporation, we enjoy a reputation among our clients and the legal community for providing the highest quality representation. You will also find that our legal fees are fair and affordable. So, give us a call today to schedule a free legal consultation with our Surrey car accident lawyer. Let us handle all aspects of your ICBC claim.