GEICO Insurance Claim After a Car Accident? Know Your Legal Rights
What GEICO Does After a Car Accident Claim
Common GEICO Claim Tactics to Watch Out For
- The Recorded Statement Trap — GEICO adjusters often call within 24 to 48 hours after the accident requesting a recorded statement. Anything you say can be used against you to minimize your claim. Importantly, you are not legally required to provide a recorded statement, and it is often wise to consult an attorney before agreeing to one.
- Quick Settlement Offer Before Medical Treatment Ends — GEICO may push a fast settlement offer before you have fully recovered or understand the extent of your injuries. Accepting this early offer typically ends your right to pursue additional compensation for ongoing or future medical needs.
- Independent Medical Exam (IME) Manipulation — GEICO will often require you to attend an IME with a doctor they select. These doctors frequently downplay the severity of your injuries or attribute them to pre-existing conditions, which can unfairly reduce your claim value.
- Claiming Comparative Fault — Under California’s pure comparative fault rules, GEICO may attempt to assign partial blame to you for the accident. This tactic reduces the amount they owe by the percentage of fault they claim you bear, even if you were mostly not at fault.
- Delay, Deny, Defend Strategy — GEICO may systematically delay processing your claim, deny valid claims, or defend aggressively to wear you down. The goal is often to frustrate claimants into accepting less than they deserve or abandoning their claim altogether.
California Law Protects You from Bad Faith Insurance Practices
When to Hire a Car Accident Attorney Against GEICO
- When GEICO denies your claim outright without a valid reason.
- When the settlement offer does not cover your medical bills or other damages.
- When GEICO disputes the severity or legitimacy of your injuries.
- When GEICO requests a recorded statement and you are unsure how to proceed.
- When your injuries involve surgery, permanent disability, or long-term treatment.
- When you experience unexplained delays or lack of communication from GEICO.
- When your accident occurred in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, Ventura County, Burbank, Glendale, Encino, or Sherman Oaks areas.
What a Lawyer Can Do That You Can't
- Accurately assess the true value of your claim based on medical records, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Communicate directly and effectively with GEICO adjusters to advocate for your interests.
- Identify and challenge bad faith insurance practices that may be harming your claim.
- Access expert witnesses such as medical professionals and accident reconstruction specialists to strengthen your case.
- Work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees and only pay if you win your case.