Experiencing a car accident is overwhelming enough without the added stress of navigating a claim with a major insurer like State Farm. As the largest auto insurer in the United States, State Farm holds a significant market share, insuring millions of vehicles nationwide. However, the company has faced scrutiny over its claims handling practices. For instance, in 2024, State Farm agreed to a $2.09 million settlement to resolve allegations of underpaying car owners by excluding “diminished value” payments from claims.
From our years of experience, we know the challenges that accident victims face when dealing with insurance companies that often prioritize cost-saving overcompensation. Us car accident lawyers are committed to fighting for you at every stage, ensuring you receive the fair treatment and financial recovery you deserve.
Preparing For Your State Farm Insurance Claim
The first step after an accident is to report it to State Farm directly. Acting swiftly is essential here, as delays or missing details can weaken your claim. That’s why we precisely handle the initial report, gathering all the particulars State Farm needs to begin processing your claim. This report lays the groundwork for a strong case, especially when paired with evidence like police reports, photos, and witness statements. In cases where clients approach us shortly after an accident, we work to secure crucial evidence right away, bolstering the claim from day one.
Tips for Negotiating for Full Compensation
One of the first challenges you may face is receiving an initial settlement offer from State Farm that seems far too low to cover your expenses. Insurers often make quick offers in hopes that accident victims will accept without fully understanding the scope of their injuries or the financial impact of the accident. Our experienced accident attorneys review every offer critically to make sure it covers everything, like your medical bills, lost wages, and future care costs. We aim to negotiate a settlement that reflects the full extent of your losses, countering any attempt to shortchange you.
We understand the financial burdens that come with accident injuries. Emergency room visits alone can average over $2,700, not to mention ongoing treatment, physical therapy, and lost income due to missed work. When we negotiate, we account for all present and future costs.
Our personal injury attorney’s comprehensive approach includes calculating any losses you might incur and presenting evidence-backed arguments to get you a fair settlement. This ensures you won’t have to pay out-of-pocket expenses the at-fault party should cover.
We’re prepared to take the next step if negotiations reach a standstill. Here’s what our approach involves:
- If necessary, we will file a lawsuit to go after the compensation you’re entitled to
- Preparing all legal documents, evidence, and statements for court
- Advocating assertively on your behalf to achieve a fair resolution
We know that going to court can be intimidating, but our team’s experience and support allow you to move forward confidently.
Navigating Insurance Tactics: How We Protect Your Rights
Insurance adjusters are trained to pay you the least they can get away with, often using tactics that exploit accident victims’ lack of legal knowledge. We know these tactics by heart and are prepared to counter them at every turn. For instance, adjusters may try to rush you into a quick settlement or downplay your injuries. Our car accident injury lawyers don’t let them take advantage of your vulnerability. Instead, we stand as a firm line of defense, ensuring they don’t misinterpret your statements or use your words against you.
Here are some common tactics insurance companies like State Farm use to lower their payout:
- Offering a quick, low settlement before the full extent of injuries is known
- Questioning the severity of your injuries by scrutinizing medical records
- Suggesting specific repair shops that may not be in your best interest
- Asking for a recorded statement, hoping to find inconsistencies
We provide guidance on how to handle each step of the process, and ensure you’re prepared and protected. This strategic approach protects you and strengthens your claim from start to finish.
Pursuing Fair Compensation Through Litigation
If State Farm refuses to offer you a fair settlement, litigation becomes necessary. Filing a lawsuit against the driver at-fault, and by extension, State Farm, is a powerful signal that you’re serious about your rights. The goal here isn’t always to go to trial; instead, the threat of litigation often motivates insurers to settle somewhat. When we take your case to court, we meticulously prepare each element to demonstrate the full impact of the accident on your life, from your medical bills to the ongoing emotional toll.
Diminished Value and Long-Term Impacts: Leaving No Stone Unturned
Beyond immediate repair costs, we also pursue claims for “diminished value”—the decrease in your vehicle’s resale value after an accident, even if it’s repaired. A significant accident can reduce a car’s value by up to 30%, affecting what you might get if you sell. Many insurers don’t offer diminished value compensation automatically, so we advocate for this coverage on your behalf.
We also ensure you’re compensated for any long-term impacts on your ability to work, primarily if the accident resulted in life-changing injuries. Medical bills, rehabilitation, and lost wages are precise costs, but pain and suffering are equally significant. This is why working with a legal team that understands the full scope of your losses and can represent them powerfully in negotiations or court is essential.
Why Hire Us? We’re Here for You
Filing a State Farm car accident claim doesn’t have to be a daunting task when you have the right team by your side. At Angel Reyes & Associates, we bring specialized expertise in car and truck accident cases, and we’re dedicated to fighting for the fair compensation you deserve. With over $1 billion recovered for accident victims, our nationally recognized and experienced accident attorneys understand how to navigate complex insurance claims and stand up to State Farm’s tactics.
Whether you’re seeking guidance on the claim process or ready to take legal action, our firm offers a free, simple, and quick online case calculator to help you understand your case’s potential value. And remember, there are no fees unless we win.
Don’t wait, don’t hesitate. Contact us today for a free consultation, or stop by one of our offices in Dallas, Fort-Worth, Houston or Austin so we can discuss your case face-to-face. You’re in good hands with Angel Reyes & Associates.
