Dealing With Insurance After a Car Accident in Batavia

What insurance companies in Illinois don't want you to know

Start Your Case

73% of people spend 3+ days searching for an attorney. We do the searching for you.

5 Common Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies are in the business of paying out as little as possible. Here are the most common tactics they use after an accident in Illinois, and why you should be aware of them:

1

The Quick Lowball Offer

Insurance companies may contact you shortly after the accident with a settlement offer that seems generous at first glance. In reality, these early offers are almost always far below what your claim is actually worth. They are counting on you accepting before you understand the full extent of your injuries and damages.

2

Requesting Recorded Statements

An adjuster may ask for a recorded statement "for their records." Anything you say can be used to minimize or deny your claim. They may ask leading questions designed to get you to admit fault or downplay your injuries. You are generally not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer.

3

Denying Valid Claims

Some claims are denied outright, even when they have merit. Insurance companies may claim the accident was your fault, that your injuries are pre-existing, or that your treatment was not medically necessary. A denial does not mean your claim lacks value. It may just mean they are testing whether you will fight back.

4

Delaying the Process

By dragging out the claims process, insurance companies hope you will become desperate enough to accept a lower settlement. They may request the same documents multiple times, take weeks to respond to calls, or claim they need "more time" to review your case.

5

Shifting Blame to You

Even in clear-cut cases, insurers may try to assign you partial fault to reduce what they owe. This is especially important to understand because your compensation can be reduced proportionally based on your percentage of fault.

Your Insurance Checklist: Do's and Don'ts

DO

Report the accident to your own insurance company promptly
Stick to the basic facts when speaking with any adjuster
Keep detailed records of all medical treatment and expenses
Document everything: save all correspondence, bills, and receipts
Take photos of all damage and injuries
Follow your doctor's treatment plan completely
Consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement offer

DON'T

Give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance without legal advice
Accept the first settlement offer without understanding your full damages
Sign any documents or medical releases from the insurance company
Post about your accident or injuries on social media
Apologize or admit fault to anyone, including at the scene
Wait too long to seek medical treatment or file your claim
Assume the insurance company is looking out for your best interests

When Insurance Denies or Lowballs Your Claim

If the insurance company has denied your claim or offered you far less than you believe your case is worth, a Batavia attorney can make a real difference. Here is what they bring to the table:

Thorough Case Review

An attorney reviews all evidence, identifies weaknesses in the insurer's position, and builds the strongest possible case.

True Value Assessment

Attorneys calculate the full value of your claim including future damages that insurance companies conveniently overlook.

Aggressive Negotiation

Insurance companies take claims more seriously when an attorney is involved. Adjusters know that a lawyer is prepared to go to court if necessary.

Protection from Tactics

An attorney handles all communication with the insurance company, protecting you from the tactics described above.

Insurance company giving you trouble in Batavia?

Get connected with a Batavia attorney who knows how to deal with insurance companies and fight for fair compensation.

Start the Process

Or call now: (773) 839-6086

What to Say When the Adjuster Calls

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim. Here's how to handle the conversation.

"I was involved in an accident and I'm seeking medical treatment."

"I'd prefer to have my attorney handle communications."

"I'm not comfortable giving a recorded statement at this time."

"I think I'm fine" or "It's not that bad"

"I'm sorry" or any admission of fault

Specific details about your injuries before seeing a doctor

0

No Obligation

Zero pressure consultation

$0

To Use Our Service

Always free — no hidden fees

0/7

Available

Call or submit anytime

0.5x

Higher Settlements

With attorney representation

Frequently Asked Questions

100% FREE

Get Help With Your Batavia Insurance Claim

Tell us about your situation and we'll connect you with a Batavia attorney who can take on the insurance company for you.

Your Information

Accident Details

Medical Treatment

By submitting, your information will be shared with licensed attorneys and service providers in our network. This is a free service with no obligation. ThatCarHitMe is not a law firm.

NO OBLIGATION
24HR RESPONSE

This is a free service with no obligation. Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. Fee arrangements are between you and the attorney you choose.