Tips for Dealing with An Insurance Adjuster

Generally, after getting to a car accident, one of the first actions a person takes is initiating contact with the insurance company of the person at fault to file a claim. Afterward, it’s common for an insurance adjuster to contact the individual. The adjuster must ask specific questions to obtain additional information. It’s a good idea to keep in mind that this person works for the insurance company and wants you to say something that can be used against you so that that agency can skimp on their payout. It’s essential for anyone in this situation to know what to expect and how to respond to official questions.

Only Give Facts About the Accident

The adjuster will ask you about what happened before and during the accident. Avoid exaggerating what took place. Directly answer all questions, tell the truth, and give them as many factual details as you can. If the adjuster asks something you can’t recall, it’s okay to say that you don’t know or don’t remember. At the same time, avoid telling the representative too many extra details, as they can get you in trouble.

Stay Calm

It might be difficult, but you must remain calm while speaking with an insurance adjuster. It’s vital that you’re friendly and willing to answer questions. That individual is just there to do their job, and if you communicate with them correctly, they’ll help you get the compensation needed to cover your expenses. There’s no reason to be nervous, as anxiety can sometimes cause you to overshare in turn causing the representative to form a bias against you.

Don’t Give Details About Injuries

While an adjuster may ask about an injury, it’s important to refrain from answering them. Some injuries may be unclear if you haven’t received medical attention before having contact with an adjuster. Tell them that you’re in the process of seeking treatment and that your medical professional will send the insurance company documents as they become available. Doing this will clear up any gray area and prevents future problems with your case.

Avoid Immediately Accepting a Settlement

Avoid immediately accepting a settlement if the insurance adjuster offers one. In general, the insurance company is likely to lowball you. They often believe they can trick someone into accepting a settlement that is far less than their case is worth. The insurer wants to put an end to the claim and move on quickly. If a person quickly accepts, they can end up being cheated and left to pay out of pocket for their various expenses. Additionally, if the settlement is too low and the person must miss time from work, they would be out the wage benefits they could otherwise receive.

Don’t Give a Recorded Statement

Insurance adjusters commonly ask people to give a recorded statement of their account of the accident. There’s no obligation to do that, and it’s best to decline to do so, from a legal standpoint. Anything recorded can be misconstrued, even deliberately, to work against the person.

Contact an Attorney

The best thing a person can do is hire an experienced personal injury lawyer to assist them in dealing with an adjuster and insurance company in general. The attorneys at The Law Offices of McCullough and Leboff, PA have experience in this area and know how to deal with insurance companies and their legal jargon. We will give you a voice when you feel pressured to cave in and accept a settlement. Contact us today to discuss the details of your claim and determine the best next steps for your situation.