6 Red Flags the Insurance Company is Undervaluing Your Injury Claim
After a car wreck, you’re likely overwhelmed — dealing with pain, doctor visits, missed work, and a suddenly complex insurance process. And while insurance companies may act helpful, their job is to protect their bottom line — not your best interest.
If you’ve filed a personal injury claim, watch for these red flags that the insurance company is undervaluing your case:
1. Quick Settlement Offer
If the insurance company rushes to offer you a check — sometimes within days of your crash — it’s not because they’re being generous. It’s a tactic to settle the claim before you understand the full extent of your injuries or future medical needs.
Tip: Never accept a settlement without speaking to a personal injury attorney.
2. Downplaying Your Injuries
They may tell you your injuries are “minor,” or that your symptoms don’t line up with the crash. They might even claim your pain is from a pre-existing condition. If your doctor says otherwise, trust your medical provider — not the insurance adjuster.
3. Delayed or Avoidant Communication
If they stop returning your calls, take weeks to reply, or repeatedly say your claim is “under review,” it’s often an intentional delay tactic. They hope you’ll get frustrated, worn down, and accept less than your claim is worth.
4. Ignoring Non-Economic Damages
Medical bills aren’t the only thing you’re entitled to. If they’re ignoring pain and suffering, emotional trauma, or loss of quality of life, they’re not offering you a fair settlement. Kentucky law allows compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
5. Using Your Words Against You
Be careful what you say in a recorded statement — and what you post online. Insurance companies will comb through your words and social media to find anything they can twist to minimize your injuries or shift the blame.
6. Blaming You for the Wreck
Even when fault is clear, adjusters may claim you were partially (or fully) at fault to reduce what they owe you. Don’t accept their version of events without legal guidance — especially if you have police reports or witnesses backing you up.
If Something Feels Off, It Probably Is
The truth is, you deserve better than what the insurance company is offering — and you don’t have to fight alone. At Queener Law, we see these tactics every day, and we know how to fight back.
Let us handle the insurance company so you can focus on healing.
You Don’t Have to Be “Seriously Injured” to Have a Valid Claim
Think your injury is “too minor” to pursue? Think again. You May Still Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim
At Queener Law, we hear this all the time: “It was just a fender bender.” “I walked away with a sore neck — no big deal, right?”
But here’s the truth: what seems “minor” today can turn into a major problem tomorrow. Waiting too long to take action can also cost you.
Minor Injuries Can Hide Serious Problems
That stiffness in your neck? That dull ache in your back? These could be early signs of something more serious, like:
Whiplash
Soft tissue damage
Herniated discs
Concussions
These injuries often don’t show their full impact right away — but they can lead to chronic pain, physical limitations, and expensive treatment down the road.
The Real Costs of “Small” Injuries
Even if your injury doesn’t land you in the hospital, it can still cause:
Medical bills
Missed work and lost wages
Ongoing therapy or treatment
Pain and emotional stress
Insurance companies are counting on you to shrug it off. They want you to believe your injury isn’t worth a claim. Don’t let them win.
You Deserve to Be Taken Seriously
Whether it’s a sore shoulder or a full-blown fracture, your injury matters — and you have a right to pursue compensation. The law doesn’t say you have to be seriously injured to have a valid personal injury claim. You just need to show that:
You were hurt as a result of someone else’s negligence
That injury caused you harm — physical, financial, or emotional
Talk to Someone Who Gets It
Before you write it off, talk to a lawyer who will take your pain seriously — like Queener Law. We’ve helped countless clients recover what they’re owed, even when they thought their injury “wasn’t that bad.”
You don’t have to go through it alone — and you don’t have to be “seriously injured” to deserve justice.
Call Queener Law today for a free consultation. Let’s talk about what your case is really worth — before it’s too late.
What Is a “Gap in Treatment” After a Car Wreck—and Why It Can Harm Your Case
When you’re injured in a car accident, every decision you make afterward can impact the strength of your personal injury claim. One of the most common—and damaging—mistakes people make is allowing a gap in treatment. But what exactly does that mean, and why is it such a big deal?
What Is a Gap in Treatment?
A gap in treatment refers to any significant delay or pause between the time of the accident and when you first seek medical attention—or any breaks in your ongoing medical care. This could look like:
Not going to the ER or urgent care the same day as the wreck
Waiting days or even weeks before seeing a doctor
Skipping follow-up appointments or recommended therapy sessions
Discontinuing treatment before being medically cleared
Why Is a Gap in Treatment Bad for Your Case?
When it comes to personal injury claims, documentation is everything. Insurance companies—and if necessary, juries—need clear, consistent medical records to connect your injuries directly to the wreck. A gap in treatment gives them an opportunity to argue that:
Your injuries weren’t serious
You may have recovered quickly and therefore don’t need compensation
Your injuries may have happened after the wreck, not because of it
In other words, even if you’re truly injured, a delay in seeking care could be used to devalue or deny your claim.
Why People Delay Treatment
It’s not uncommon for people to feel “fine” immediately after a car crash, only to experience pain, stiffness, or other symptoms hours or days later. Adrenaline can mask injuries. Others delay treatment because they’re busy, don’t think they’re seriously hurt, or are worried about medical bills.
But here’s the hard truth: if you’re injured and don’t get checked out right away, you’re not only risking your health—you’re risking your right to fair compensation.
Why You Should Call Queener Law Immediately
At Queener Law, we understand how overwhelming things can feel after a wreck. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from making sure you get proper medical care to dealing with insurance companies on your behalf.
When you contact Queener Law immediately after a car wreck:
We help you avoid critical mistakes like gaps in treatment
We ensure your injuries are properly documented from Day One
We fight to protect your rights and maximize your compensation
Your health and your case are too important to gamble with. The sooner you act, the better your outcome—both physically and financially.
Don’t wait. Contact Queener Law today. Let us fight for the care and compensation you deserve.
What Every Motorcyclist Needs to Know About PIP Coverage
Kentucky is a “no-fault” state when it comes to car insurance. That means most drivers are protected by Personal Injury Protection (PIP)—coverage that helps pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses after an accident, no matter who was at fault.
Sounds great, right? It is—if you’re in a car.
But here’s the catch: If you’re on a motorcycle, you’re not automatically covered by PIP. That’s right. Motorcycle riders in Kentucky are excluded from no-fault coverage unless they specifically add PIP to their policy.
This legal loophole leaves riders dangerously exposed after an accident. Motorcycle crashes can result in serious injuries—and without PIP, you could be on the hook for thousands of dollars in medical bills and lost income while you recover.
What Can You Do?
Add PIP to your motorcycle insurance policy. It’s optional—but crucial. Make sure you talk to your insurance agent and ask if you’re covered. If not, request that PIP be added immediately.
Know your rights and options. Understanding Kentucky’s motorcycle insurance laws can help protect you financially if the unexpected happens.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contacting Queener Law is a crucial first step in protecting your rights. Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an injury can take, and we’re here to help you navigate the legal process with clarity and confidence. At Queener Law, we fight to secure the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life. Don’t wait—your recovery starts with the right legal team by your side.
Many Kentuckians enjoy the thrill of riding in the bed of a pickup truck, especially during warm weather. However, before hopping in the back, it’s essential to understand the legalities. Kentucky law has specific rules regarding riding in the bed of a truck, and violating them can lead to serious consequences.
Kentucky Law on People Riding in the Bed of a Truck
In Kentucky, the legality of riding in the bed of a truck depends on several factors, including the rider’s age, the location, and the circumstances. Generally, Kentucky law allows adults to ride in the bed of a truck, but there are specific regulations for minors and requirements for safe transportation.
Under Kentucky law, minors riding in the bed of a truck is legal in some situations. It is allowed during a parade or when the vehicle is part of a special event or used for emergency purposes. It is also legal when transporting farmworkers from one field to another on farm-to-market roads, ranch-to-market roads, or county roads outside municipalities.
Additionally, riding in the bed is permitted during a hayride that the local governing body or law enforcement agency has permitted.
Kentucky Law on Pets Riding in the Bed of a Truck
In Kentucky, there are no specific state laws that prohibit dogs from riding in the bed of a pickup truck.However, allowing a dog to do so without proper restraint can raise concerns under the state’s animal cruelty statutes, which prohibit transporting animals in a cruel or inhumane manner.
While Kentucky doesn’t have explicit laws mandating restraints for dogs in truck beds, it’s important to consider safety recommendations.Unrestrained dogs are at significant risk of injury from falls, sudden stops, or accidents.To ensure their safety and to avoid potential legal issues, it’s advisable to use a secured crate or a cross-tethering system when transporting dogs in the bed of a pickup truck.
Additionally, some local ordinances may have specific regulations regarding this practice. Therefore, it’s prudent to check with local authorities to ensure compliance with any municipal laws.
Legal Considerations for Adults Riding in the Bed of a Truck
Kentucky law is more lenient for adults. It is generally legal for adults to ride in a truck’s bed, but the truck must be equipped to carry passengers safely. Passengers in the truck bed must be seated or standing securely, and the truck should have a bed designed to hold passengers safely.
Even though it’s legal for adults, safety is a critical concern. Passengers in the bed of a truck are vulnerable to being ejected, especially in the event of a collision or sudden maneuver. Kentucky law requires that the passengers in the truck bed must take precautions to avoid accidents that could lead to serious injury or death. In the event of an accident, you may be liable for the accident and the passenger’s injuries.
Why Safety Matters
Riding in the bed of a truck can be dangerous. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that over 500 people are killed each year in the U.S. after being ejected from pickup truck beds. The unrestrained nature of the ride, combined with the lack of protective barriers, increases the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a crash.
Passengers in the truck bed also lack protection from the elements or other vehicles, which can amplify the severity of any accident. Unrestrained passengers are at a significantly higher risk of injury in any collision.
Best Practices for Safety
If you must ride in the bed of a truck, follow these safety tips to minimize risks:
Consider Avoiding Riding in the Bed: The safest option is to ride inside the truck’s cab. This provides far more protection in the event of a crash.
Wear a Seatbelt: If you’re in the bed, please make sure that you are seated securely and, if possible, wearing a seatbelt or safety harness.
Drive Carefully: Drivers should adhere to speed limits, avoid sudden maneuvers, and exercise caution when driving with passengers in the truck bed.
Use Safety Barriers: Trucks equipped with safety barriers or nets for passengers should use them to prevent ejection.
Use a Crate For Pets: Consider transporting your pet in a crate or a cross tethering system.
If someone is injured while riding in the bed of your truck, you could be held liable for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other economic damages. In such cases, having legal representation is crucial to navigating the complexities of personal injury claims and potential lawsuits.
Follow Kentucky Laws and Exercise Caution
In Kentucky, riding in the bed of a truck is generally legal for adults, but there are strict laws regarding minors. Kentucky prohibits children under 18 from riding in the bed of a car on public roads to protect them from potentially deadly accidents. While the law permits truck bed rides for adults, safety remains a critical concern. Please ensure the truck is designed to carry passengers safely and follow the necessary precautions to avoid injury.
In summary, while not explicitly illegal statewide, transporting an unrestrained dog in the bed of a pickup truck in Kentucky can pose safety risks and potential legal concerns under animal cruelty provisions.
Contact Queener Law
For more information, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer like Henry Queener at Queener Law to schedule a free initial consultation today.
Should You Buy Rental Car Insurance? Pros and Cons Explained
Renting a car can be a convenient way to travel, whether you’re on vacation, on a business trip, or your vehicle is temporarily out of commission. But right before you drive off the lot, you’re faced with a familiar question at the rental counter: Do you want to purchase insurance with that?
If you’ve ever hesitated or felt unsure, you’re not alone. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of buying rental car insurance to help you make a confident decision the next time you rent.
The Pros of Buying Rental Car Insurance
1. Peace of Mind
One of the biggest advantages is the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re covered. If anything goes wrong — from a fender bender to theft — you won’t have to deal with your personal auto insurance or pay out-of-pocket.
2. Protects Your Personal Insurance
If you use your personal auto insurance for a rental, any claims can impact your rates. Rental insurance helps you avoid filing through your own policy, preserving your premium and avoiding deductible payments.
3. Additional Coverage
Rental insurance often includes extras not covered by personal insurance, like loss-of-use fees (charges for the time the rental is out of commission), administrative fees, and roadside assistance.
4. Simpler Claims Process
With rental insurance, the rental company typically handles claims directly. This can be much faster and less stressful than going through your personal insurance provider.
The Cons of Buying Rental Car Insurance
1. It Can Be Expensive
Rental car insurance can add $10–$30 or more per day to your rental costs. If you’re renting for several days or weeks, that adds up fast.
2. You May Already Be Covered
Many drivers already have sufficient coverage through their personal auto insurance, credit cards, or travel insurance. Paying for duplicate coverage is essentially throwing money away.
3. Confusing Terms
Rental companies often offer multiple types of coverage (collision damage waiver, liability, personal accident insurance, etc.), and it can be unclear what’s necessary or redundant — especially under pressure at the counter.
4. Coverage May Still Have Gaps
Even with rental insurance, you might not be fully protected. For instance, some policies don’t cover damage to tires, the undercarriage, or windshield — all of which are common damage points.
So, Should You Buy It?
It depends. Ask yourself the following:
Does my personal car insurance cover rentals?
Does my credit card offer rental car insurance?
Am I traveling internationally, where my coverage might not apply?
Do I want to avoid the hassle of filing claims?
Consumer Reports suggests “before you get to the rental counter, find out exactly what your credit card and personal auto insurance protect you against, paying special attention to the common coverage gaps and special circumstances.”
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contacting Queener Law is a crucial first step in protecting your rights. Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an injury can take, and we’re here to help you navigate the legal process with clarity and confidence. At Queener Law, we fight to secure the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life. Don’t wait—your recovery starts with the right legal team by your side.
