Founding Partner
A slip and fall can leave a victim with serious and painful injuries. They have the right to file an accident claim, which means the defendant’s insurance company will get involved. It’s at this point that the victim needs to understand certain things about their rights and interests.
Knowing this information can position you to make a strong claim for the compensation you deserve. So can hiring a dedicated Maryland personal injury law firm. Find out why slip and fall victims trust McGowan & Cecil, LLC.
You Don’t Have to Give a Recorded Statement
After you slip and fall on someone’s property and file a claim against the owner, expect to hear from the insurance company. The company may ask you to give a recorded statement. It is strongly advised that you do not do this.
Insurers are skilled at using victims’ own words against them, and the recorded statement helps them do this. Understand that the insurance company is looking out for their interests and not yours. No matter how sympathetic the adjuster seems, don’t agree to a recorded statement.
You Have the Right to Hire an Attorney
More broadly, you can and should speak with an attorney before talking to any insurance companies. You have the right to retain counsel, even for a relatively “minor” slip and fall. No matter how severe or not you think the accident is, talk to a Maryland personal injury lawyer.
The claims adjuster may try to discourage you from speaking with a lawyer, promising to handle the matter fairly or even saying that your claim is baseless. Remember, they are watching out for their bottom line. Always get an informed opinion from a knowledgeable attorney.
Insurance Companies are Not Forthcoming
The simple fact is that insurance companies will either deny or minimize your claim.
Whatever the insurer says about the law, about your injuries, or about the compensation that may be available to you – even if it sounds pretty good – don’t take it at face value. Speak to a lawyer before agreeing to anything the insurance company offers you.
You Have the Right to Seek Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In contrast to economic damages, they are more subjective in nature and more difficult to calculate. But this does not mean a slip and fall victim has no right to them.
Insurance companies do not like to pay these damages and will likely try to discourage you from seeking them. However, if the insurer refuses to fairly settle your slip and fall claim, then you have the right to take the matter to trial and seek all available damages.
Get the Facts About Your Maryland Slip and Fall Case
Once a victim settles with the insurance company, their claim is over and they can never ask for more compensation. Before you speak with the insurer or agree to anything, make sure you are looking after your interests.
It’s time to get in touch with McGowan & Cecil, LLC. We can explore your options and advocate for the full amount of compensation that you deserve for your injuries. Connect with us today to get started.