After a Charlotte car accident it is very common from the injured party to be visited by the insurance adjuster immediately after the accident. There are a number reasons behind this but the rational held by the insurance companies is this is time period when people are hurting and most vulnerable (and most willing to sign anything without speaking with a lawyer). There are a number of steps that take place when a person’s car is damaged by the negligence of another. This page deals with the most common question about the initial insurance appraisal and the role it plays.

QUESTION

What happens if I disagree with the insurance adjuster’s appraisal of damage?

ANSWER

The answer (or more correctly your options) depends on whether you are handling the property damage portion of your claim under your collision coverage or the other person’s liability insurance. Regardless, the Charlotte personal injury attorney assigned to your case will explain to you that the insurance adjuster’s appraisal has limited value. In NC, the adjuster is not able to break down your vehicle or even enter it without your permission. The adjuster can merely walk around the vehicle and take pictures. As such, the appraisal that matters is that of the body shop. If you have been involved in a NC car accident you have the right to take your vehicle to a body shop of your choosing. The body shop’s appraisal will be compared to the adjuster’s. As long as it can be shown that the damage to the vehicle was a result of the NC car accident the adjuster is responsible to pay for it (regardless of his/her original appraisal).

Call (704) 714-1450 to make an appointment to speak with a personal injury attorney in Charlotte, or stop by the office during regular business hours. We understand that the last thing you need to do at this time is miss a doctor’s appointment or more time from work. We will schedule an appointment that meets your needs.