On occasion, if a person attends a party or social event hosted by another homeowner, injuries can occur. These cases should be covered by the homeowner’s insurance claim or a general liability policy. Some events that we have seen in the last 3 decades have involved alcohol consumption, drug use, falls down the stairs, reckless behavior including even gunshot injuries, and horseplay around a pool, bounce house, or playground.
Do You Need a Lawyer For a Homeowner’s Insurance Claim?
Often you need to hire a lawyer to file a homeowner’s insurance claim involving someone getting hurt on another’s property. Occasionally, the insurance adjuster will come up with a settlement amount, which the claimant can then either accept or choose to negotiate. Although it is advisable to seek legal representation to assist in these matters, sometimes, the two parties will reach an agreement without the need for legal counsel.
However, there are times when it becomes necessary to consult a homeowner’s insurance claim lawyer:
- If the claim is for an extremely high amount or is particularly complex: A lawyer can examine your case and advise you on how to proceed when negotiating with the insurance company, or they can handle the negotiations on your behalf.
- If it takes an inordinate amount of time to settle your claim: If your claim is not settled in a reasonable amount of time, you can take legal action.
- If it becomes necessary to sue the insurance company: Taking legal action against an insurance company should be an absolute last resort, but if it does become necessary, you will need an experienced homeowner’s insurance claims attorney.
What To Do Before Consulting a Personal Injury Lawyer Concerning a Homeowner’s Insurance Claim
Before you reach out to a homeowner’s insurance attorney regarding a personal injury matter, make sure you have taken the following steps:
- Speak to your insurance broker or claims adjuster and try to get all the pertinent information about the claims such as the claims adjuster’s contact information, claim number, and issues or items being requested of you.
- Gather the information and evidence required to help prove your claim like photos, witness statements or identifying witnesses, medical bills, reports, costs, etc.
Consider hiring an attorney to review the situation to see what can be done to help you as a victim of negligence concerning the homeowner insurance policy.