Secondary victimization refers to the additional harm victims experience due to the way they are treated after an incident. An empathetic and professional approach is crucial to prevent this, including in Zoetermeer.
What does secondary victimization entail?
Secondary victimization, also known as renewed victimhood, occurs when victims have negative experiences during the handling of their case or in interaction with service providers.
Types of secondary victimization
| Source | Examples | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance companies | Skepticism, delays in processing, minimizing complaints | Stress, frustration, feeling of injustice |
| Employers | Pressure to work, dismissal, intimidation | Financial stress, social exclusion |
| Care providers | Not being taken seriously, incorrect diagnoses | Worsening of health, loss of trust |
| Social circle | Lack of understanding, blame, rejection | Feeling of loneliness, depression |
| Justice system | Prolonged procedures, confrontational interrogations, disbelief | Exhaustion, reliving of trauma |
Causes at insurers
In the personal injury sector, secondary victimization by insurers is often highlighted.
Common bottlenecks
Typical problems
- Prolonged processing times
- Frequent changes of contact persons
- Repeated requests for evidence
- Disputing established complaints
- Use of private detectives
- Under-substantiated low settlement offers
- Indirect communication via lawyers
Code of Conduct for Personal Injury Handling (GBL)
The GBL was developed to minimize secondary victimization and provides guidelines for all parties involved.
Key principles of the GBL
- Victim is central in the procedure
- Open and respectful communication
- Efficient handling of cases
- Appropriate advances
- Objective and competent assessments
Recognizing signs of secondary victimization
It is important to notice signs of secondary victimization in a timely manner, also in Zoetermeer.
Recognizable signs
| Sign | Manifestation |
|---|---|
| Increased tension | Fear of letters, phone calls or appointments |
| Lack of trust | No longer believing anyone, wanting to check everything oneself |
| Helplessness | Feeling of having no control over the situation |
| Reliving trauma | Having to repeatedly tell the story |
| Avoidant behavior | Ignoring mail, canceling appointments |
Countering secondary victimization
Both victims and professionals in Zoetermeer can take steps to prevent secondary victimization.
Advice for victims
- Find a reliable representative
- Let communication run through your representative
- Indicate what your boundaries are
- Seek contact with fellow sufferers or service providers
- Document unprofessional behavior well
Advice for professionals
- Approach victims with understanding and respect
- Be clear about procedures and deadlines
- Avoid unnecessary delays
- Request only relevant information
- Acknowledge the consequences of the injury
Complaint options
In case of secondary victimization by professionals in Zoetermeer, various complaint options are available.
Complaint bodies
| Involved party | Complaint body |
|---|---|
| Insurer | Internal complaints procedure, Kifid |
| Opposing party's lawyer | Dean of the Bar Association |
| Medical specialist | Disciplinary Board for Healthcare |
| Expertise organization | Complaint to NIVRE or client |
Help in Zoetermeer
For legal support, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. In addition, cases in this region fall under the District Court of The Hague.
Frequently asked questions
What to do if my insurer handles my case slowly or disrespectfully?
Keep all communication and unprofessional behavior documented. Engage a representative, such as a lawyer or personal injury expert, to take over the communication. File a complaint via the insurer's internal procedure or with Kifid. The GBL obliges insurers to handle matters respectfully and promptly. In case of persistent problems, you can consider legal action.
How do I know if I am becoming a secondary victim?
Watch for signs such as increasing stress when contacting involved parties, feelings of helplessness, distrust towards professionals, reliving the trauma by repeating your story, or avoiding contact and mail.