What should people know about how insurance companies evaluate claims?
Attorney Sam Ivy explained that many insurance companies view claimants as little more than numbers. They frequently use specialized software programs that input medical diagnoses and other data points to produce a settlement figure. These programs strip away the human element and often result in lowball offers. Ivy stressed that hiring an attorney early ensures the claim is properly humanized, giving the injured person a real voice and maximizing the value of their case.
What tactics do insurance adjusters use to reduce or delay compensation?
Sam Ivy noted that adjusters often request an overwhelming number of forms, including medical authorizations, to gain unrestricted access to an injured person’s records. This tactic can be used against claimants and delay case progress. Attorney Vic Ivy added that insurers frequently claim cases are “under investigation” as a way to postpone decisions while they gather evidence—sometimes even from the injured party’s own statements or family members. These strategies are designed to shift control to the insurance company and limit payouts.
Why are recorded statements risky for injury victims?
Vic Ivy explained that insurance companies often seek recorded statements immediately after an accident, sometimes while the injured person is still hospitalized or under medication. In such cases, a victim might mistakenly say they feel fine or misremember critical facts, such as vehicle colors or accident details. These early misstatements can later be used to discredit their case at trial. That is why attorneys caution against giving recorded statements without legal guidance.
Why do insurance companies discourage hiring a lawyer?
According to Sam Ivy, when insurers tell victims they do not need a lawyer, it is a red flag. While the injured person is unrepresented, the insurance company builds its case against them, and crucial evidence may disappear—such as vehicle damage, photographs, or accident scene details. Once evidence is gone, it cannot be recovered. Ivy emphasized that retaining an attorney early allows for proper investigation, evidence preservation, and stronger case preparation.
What are the red flags that a claim may not be handled fairly?
Vic Ivy noted that insurers sometimes completely ignore claimants, failing to return calls, texts, or emails. Sam Ivy added that another major red flag is when insurers offer quick settlements before medical treatment is complete. Accepting such offers locks victims into undervalued compensation without accounting for long-term injuries. Additionally, insurance companies may attempt to run out the statute of limitations by stalling, effectively barring victims from pursuing claims in court.
Can insurance companies deny claims without valid reasons?
Sam Ivy explained that while insurers cannot legally deny claims without valid reasons, they often use vague justifications such as “further investigation is needed.” Although statutes like Tennessee’s bad faith laws protect victims, the denial process is heavily influenced by the insurance contract itself. In many cases, attorneys must pursue both the at-fault driver’s insurer and the client’s own uninsured motorist coverage to ensure fair compensation. Ivy described this process as “playing chess” with the insurer, requiring strategy and legal experience.
How can individuals stand up to an insurance company’s legal team?
Vic Ivy emphasized that injury victims need a strong legal advocate because insurance companies often employ entire teams of attorneys. However, in the courtroom, only one lawyer can speak at a time. He explained that with decades of combined trial experience, he and Sam Ivy know how to present cases effectively to juries, ensuring victims have the best possible representation. Vic contrasted their approach with “television attorneys” who rarely appear in court, assuring listeners that Ivy & Ivy personally handle their clients’ trials.
What is the most important thing injury victims should remember during a claim?
Sam Ivy warned that insurance companies begin building a case against claimants from day one. For this reason, he stressed the importance of gathering evidence early and hiring an experienced personal injury attorney to lead the investigation. Serious cases often require expert witnesses and extensive preparation, which Ivy & Ivy have handled successfully many times. He reminded injury victims that if they are still experiencing pain months after an accident, their case may be more serious than they initially realized, making legal representation essential to obtaining fair compensation.