Mercury Insurance can be a real pain to deal with sometimes, so it helps to know what you are dealing with.
Mercury Insurance Group Background
Mercury Insurance Group, a/k/a Mercury Insurance, is not as big as many other insurance groups that sell auto insurance in the United States. It also operates primarily in 11 states. Texas is one of those eleven. Do not be mistaken, however: “smaller” does not mean they are “small.” Mercury Insurance boasts over 9.6 billion in assets. Mercury has operated since 1961. It is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.
Mercury Insurance tends to market lower-cost insurance to better drivers. They offer “premium” discounts for lower-risk drivers. Many of the policies we see in Texas are bare-bones, providing only the minimum limits and basic required coverages.
Dealing With Mercury Claims Adjusters
Historically, some claimants have reported that dealing with a Mercury Insurance claims adjuster is not always pleasant. Perhaps that is why they were hit with a three-million-dollar jury verdict in 2008 after the jury was shown evidence that Mercury training documents taught people to make low-ball claims offers, drag out claims, and remind claimants they could be found liable at trial. Amerigraphics, Inc. v. Mercury Casualty Company, BC331524 (La. Super. Ct., Feb. 21, 2008). Don’t be surprised if they put up a fight. You would be wise to hire a car wreck attorney who knows them and can help you pursue your case.
How To File a Mercury Insurance Claim
If you plan to pursue a claim on your own, you can set up your auto claim in two ways. First, you can call them at (800) 503-3724. Second, you may file a claim online through their claim portal here.
Documents to Have Ready
When you file an auto insurance claim, having certain documents nearby can make the process easier. These documents include:
- A copy of your declaration page with the coverage information and policy number.
- A copy of your driver’s license.
- Your Social Security card.
- Your health insurance card and policy number.
- The police report (if you have it) and any other papers the officer gave you.
- Any medical bills or records received when obtaining medical care.
- Contact numbers for the medical providers.
- Copies of any receipts for medical supplies.
- A car repair estimate if available.
- Any contact number for a car storage lot or repair shop.
- Any contact and/or insurance information you have on the other driver.
- Any photos of the vehicles or scene you took.
Don’t worry if you don’t have all of the above information, but it can help.
Talking About Your Vehicle Damage
When discussing your vehicle damage, you have options. You can ask them for a shop to take the car to, or you may select your own. They will want to see any pictures you have, but they will likely send out their own adjuster too. Ask whether they can do this at the shop you chose to save you the inconvenience.
Talking About Your Injury Claim
When it comes to filing your own injury claim, we don’t recommend it if you have serious injuries or ongoing medical care. Remember, no matter how friendly an adjuster is, they represent the company, not you. Some things to know are as follows:
- You will have a different adjuster for the bodily injury claim than the property damage claim. This is normal, so there’s no reason to panic.
- Be very careful what you say to the adjuster about your injuries. Some injuries are delayed. Don’t discuss injury care or anything like that until you are fully recovered.
- Do not give a recorded statement about your injuries without an attorney. They are trained to trap and trick you into harming your case.
- Accepting a settlement on the phone will end your case. It is a myth that a settlement isn’t valid unless it’s in writing. This is false. Do not talk numbers until you are ready to settle for sure.
Related Reading
- Mistakes to Avoid When Pursuing a Bodily Injury Claim. A more in-depth look at things to avoid when filing.
- Verbal Agreements to Settle Your Auto Claim. Beware: if you say the magic words, your case is over.
- How to File an Injury Claim Against an Auto Insurance Company. Learn how the insurance company you are fighting deals with your claim.
Don’t Let Mercury Insurance Treat Your Claim Like a Number
If you were injured in an auto accident, you deserve compensation for the damage to your vehicle and your person. If Mercury Insurance refuses to provide fair compensation for your accident, call Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. for a free consultation about your case. We charge no fees unless we make a recovery. (713) 932-0777
