In recent years, technology and the internet have fostered a new trend in social media with websites such as Youtube, Facebook, and Twitter. This undeniably stems from the desire for instant information. How can technology and the internet assist in maximizing subrogation cases? Consider these examples:
Youtube/Online Video: Recently I received a new fire loss days after the fire occurred. I began searching online for information and came across multiple Youtube videos of the fire still burning. Some of the videos were taken from a helicopter by a major news organization and others were local/online reporters and bystanders documenting the fire spread. One video even included an interview with the local fire department chief discussing the status of the fire. These videos can be used to assist fire cause and origin investigators in their evaluation of where the fire started, how it spread and even identifying witnesses.
E-Mailing Notice Letters: The process of placing a potential defendant on notice of a new loss, and receiving a response, can often take weeks. However, most companies have websites with e-mail contact information. By utilizing their e-mail addresses, you can ensure (1) reasonable notice and (2) faster notification to liability carriers. Further, you can activate the "Return Receipt" feature on your email to verify that the notice was actually received.
Video-Conferencing: Whether you are conducting a roundtable conference with subrogation counsel, interviewing an insured or even listening to a deposition, a simple telephone call may not always provide all of the details. If a picture is worth a thousand words then video-conferencing is the equivalent of a dictionary. Video-conferencing allows you to assess facial expressions and body language. In essence, it puts you in the room. Video-conferencing is readily available in most law firms and there are many inexpensive alternatives available, such as Skype which allows video calls over the internet to other Skype users.
These are just a few examples of how technology and the internet can assist in maximizing subrogation recoveries. These tools should be utilized for effective and efficient handling of subrogation losses.