Dealing with GEICO after a car accident is stressful. Despite GEICO’s advertising promises of quick, friendly service and fast payouts, dealing with the company after an accident can be challenging, which is why many accident victims choose to speak with a car accident attorney before communicating further with the insurer.
Like all insurance companies, GEICO prioritizes its profits over its insured drivers’ claims.
Understanding how GEICO handles accident claims can help you avoid mistakes that may affect the amount of compensation you receive. Keep reading to learn more.
How GEICO Starts Its Investigation
After a crash is reported, GEICO will open a claim and assign an adjuster to investigate what happened. The adjuster may call you within hours, even before you have time to see a doctor. They will ask for your version of the accident, including details about your injuries and your vehicle.
Many people feel pressured to answer right away, but you are not required to give a recorded statement immediately. Insurance adjusters are trained to look for comments that can be used to limit or deny claims.
Why GEICO Pushes for Quick Settlements
GEICO often tries to settle accident claims quickly. A quick settlement may seem convenient, but it typically benefits the insurer more than the injured person. Once you accept a settlement, you cannot go back and ask for more money later.
The Role of Medical Records in GEICO Claims
Medical records play a major role in how GEICO evaluates injury claims. The adjuster will compare your records with the statements you gave after the crash. If there are gaps in treatment or delays in seeing a doctor, the insurer may argue that you were not seriously hurt.
GEICO may also request access to your past medical records. You do not have to sign blanket medical releases that allow them to view unrelated private information. Only records connected to the accident should be shared.
To protect your claim, it helps to focus on the following:
- Get medical care as soon as possible after the crash.
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan without long breaks.
- Keep copies of important documents and receipts for future reference.
Consistent treatment, clear medical documentation, and limited releases make it harder for an insurer to reduce your claim. Protecting your medical privacy and following your treatment plan can strengthen your case.
GEICO’s Use of Computer Programs to Value Claims
Many people believe their GEICO claim is reviewed individually, but the company often uses computer programs to estimate settlement values. These systems rely on data such as injury types, treatment codes, and the length of medical care.
While these programs are efficient, they can undervalue injuries that do not fit neatly into preset categories. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and long-term impacts cannot be measured by software alone. Adjusters rely heavily on these numbers when making offers, which is one reason settlements may seem lower than expected.
Understanding how these systems work gives you a better chance of recovering what you deserve.
When GEICO Disputes Liability
Even when fault seems clear, GEICO may still challenge who caused the accident. They may claim you were partially responsible or argue that there is not enough evidence to prove their driver was at fault.
In Illinois, being even partially at fault can reduce the value of your settlement. GEICO may base these arguments on statements you made, limited witness information, or photos that do not show the whole accident scene.
Contact Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a Lake County Car Accident Lawyer
If you’re dealing with a GEICO claim after a crash, you don’t have to navigate it on your own. Our Lake County car accident attorneys can review your case, explain your options, and protect your rights from day one.
For more information, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
We proudly serve clients throughout Northbrook, Lake County, IL, and nearby areas, including Waukegan, Gurnee, North Chicago, Highland Park, Round Lake Beach, Zion, Grayslake, Libertyville, Lake Zurich, Lake Forest, Antioch, Highwood, Mettawa, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Round Lake, Lindenhurst, and Beach Park.
Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers
601 Skokie Blvd Suite 401
Northbrook, IL 60062
(847) 513-9582
