As part of the car accident claims process, you may have to speak with insurance adjusters regarding the facts of the collision. Vehicle collisions can be stressful and overwhelming experiences, and you may feel vulnerable and unsure of what to do or say if an insurance company representative calls.
However, know that anything you say to an adjuster can be used in deciding your claim. If you inadvertently admit fault or hint that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim, even accidentally or without realizing, it can impact your settlement.
Learn what to avoid when speaking with insurance adjusters after a crash and how a Miami car accident lawyer from Aigen Injury Law can protect your rights.
Why You Should Be Wary of Insurance Adjusters After a Crash
Insurance adjusters are employees of insurance companies tasked with evaluating claims and determining compensation. While their role is to assess and process claims fairly, their primary goal is to protect their employer’s financial interests.
Adjusters may use the following tactics to gather information that could be used to reduce or deny your claim:
- Suggest casual conversation to get you to inadvertently admit fault or downplay your injuries.
- Ask leading questions designed to make you question your own account of the crash.
- Insist that a recorded statement is mandatory, which can be used against you later.
- Minimize your injuries by suggesting they are less serious than claimed.
- Imply that legal representation is unnecessary, potentially leading to a less favorable settlement.
What Not to Say If an Adjuster Contacts You
When an insurance adjuster contacts you after a car accident, choose your words carefully. What you say will impact the outcome of your case, so avoid the following mistakes.
Apologizing
Saying you’re sorry about the accident or apologizing for the other driver’s injuries, even if you only meant it as an expression of sympathy or an automatic reaction out of politeness, can be seen as an admission of guilt, which can harm your claim.
For instance, the insurer could use statements like “I’m sorry, I didn’t see their car” or “It was my fault, I should have been paying more attention” against you to show you were at fault. Instead of apologizing, focus on providing factual information about the incident without admitting fault.
Making Statements About Facts You Aren’t Sure Of
Insurance adjusters may ask you to provide details about the accident, such as the speed at which you were driving or the exact sequence of events.
Don’t speculate or guess about these facts if you are unsure. Answering incorrectly, even by accident, can make your entire testimony less trustworthy. Simply say, “I don’t recall” or “I can’t remember. You may need to reference the accident report” if you are uncertain about the details.
Exaggerating or Downplaying Injuries
Providing accurate information about your injuries is essential. Exaggerating their severity can harm your credibility, while downplaying them may result in less compensation than you deserve.
Stick to the facts, avoid saying things like “I feel okay” or “My injuries aren’t that bad,” and consult a medical professional to assess your injuries for an accurate diagnosis.
Signing Documents Without Understanding Them
Insurance adjusters may ask you to sign various documents, such as medical authorizations or settlement agreements. Before signing anything, consult an attorney from Aigen Injury Law who can review the documents to protect your interests.
How Working with an Attorney Can Protect Your Rights
After an accident, you can avoid common missteps by contacting an attorney and directing all insurance questions to your legal representative. Your lawyer can handle all communications, including answering insurer questions, submitting a well-documented claim, and negotiating a fair settlement.
At Aigen Injury Law, we skillfully navigate conversations with adjusters to safeguard against unintentional statements or admissions that might impact your case. Our knowledge and experience in legal liability in Florida can help maximize your compensation, ensuring it accurately represents the extent of your injuries and associated losses.
Get Experienced Legal Protection After a Crash
After a car accident, be careful when talking to insurance adjusters. To ensure your rights are protected and you get a fair settlement, consider getting help from an experienced personal injury lawyer at Aigen Injury Law.
We can communicate with insurance adjusters on your behalf and prevent their attempts to devalue or deny your claim. Contact our law firm for a free consultation; Let us help you protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.