How Insurance Companies Devalue or Deny Valid Boat Accident Claims
During the 2022 calendar year, the US Coast Guard recorded more than 4,040 total boating accidents that resulted in 636 fatalities in more than 2,200 injuries. These incidents led to around $63 million worth of property damage.
When individuals sustain injuries or property damage as a result of a boating accident caused by the negligence of another party, they deserve compensation. Often, this compensation comes in the form of an insurance carrier settlement, but there are various tactics that insurance carriers could use to devalue or deny valid boat accident claims in California.
What Tactics Will Insurance Carriers Use?
Some of the main tactics that insurance carriers could use to devalue or deny A valid vote accident claim include:
- Disputing liability. Insurance carriers may challenge the claimant’s version of events, disputing the liability of the boat owner or operator. The carrier may argue that the claimant was partially responsible for the boating accident, attempting to reduce or deny compensation.
- Minimizing damages. Insurance companies may downplay the severity of injuries and damages suffered by the claimant, questioning the necessity and extent of medical treatment and rehabilitation expenses. They may seek to undervalue property damage, including the cost of repairs or replacement of the vessel.
- Utilizing biased experts. Insurance carriers may engage expert witnesses who provide opinions that favor the insurance company’s position, casting doubt on the extent of injuries and damages claimed by the individual or business. Presenting conflicting expert opinions can be used to weaken the credibility of the claimant’s case.
- Claiming a policy exclusion. Insurance companies may invoke policy exclusions or limitations to deny coverage for certain types of damages or specific circumstances surrounding the boat accident.
- Delaying the claims process. Insurance carriers may employ tactics to prolong the claims process, such as requesting excessive documentation or conducting extensive investigations, causing frustration and potential financial strain on the claimant. Delays can discourage claimants from pursuing their claims or accepting lower settlement offers out of desperation.
- Surveillance and investigation. Insurance carriers may conduct surveillance on the claimant, searching for evidence that undermines the legitimacy of their claim. They may investigate the claimant’s background and medical history to find inconsistencies or pre-existing conditions that can be used to devalue or deny the claim.
How Will a Boat Accident Lawyer Help?
When dealing with a boat accident claim, it is important to hire a boat accident attorney who specializes in maritime and boat accident litigation. An attorney can effectively combat the methods used by insurance carriers, providing several benefits to your case. A skilled lawyer will possess a deep understanding of maritime law and the specific regulations governing boating accidents.
Additionally, an accident lawyer in Sacramento will have the resources and expertise to conduct a thorough investigation of the boat accident. They collect crucial evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and expert opinions. Working in collaboration with marine accident reconstruction experts, they can establish fault, determine negligence, and present a strong case on behalf of the claimant. This comprehensive investigation is crucial in building a solid foundation for the claim and countering any disputes raised by the insurance carrier.
Another key advantage of hiring an attorney is their skill in negotiating fair compensation. Insurance carriers often attempt to undervalue or deny valid boat accident claims. Attorneys will assess the extent of the claimant’s damages, including medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. They advocate for the claimant, ensuring that fair compensation is sought and obtained.
Boat accident claims involve complex legal and insurance documentation that can be overwhelming for individuals without legal knowledge. Attorneys handle all the paperwork, ensuring accuracy and adherence to legal deadlines. This assistance minimizes the risk of claim denial due to technicalities and ensures that the claimant’s rights are fully protected.
If necessary, attorneys are prepared to take the boat accident claim to court and provide strong representation in litigation. They are experienced in litigation strategies and can effectively challenge biased expert opinions, present evidence, and advocate for the claimant’s rights in the courtroom.