Why You Need to Be Cautious Speaking to a Claims Adjuster
Shortly after being involved in an accident, you may be contacted by an insurance claims adjuster. A claims adjuster is a person employed by the insurance company to determine whether you have a valid case and how much your claim is worth. Unfortunately, claims adjusters do not have your best interest in mind and may try to get you to settle your case for less than it is worth or for nothing at all.
At Hagelgans & Veronis we have extensive experience working with insurance adjusters and ensuring our clients receive the maximum compensation they deserve after an accident. We have recovered over $300 million in verdicts and settlements for our clients. If you were injured in an accident, contact our office at (717) 295-7009 to schedule a free consultation.
What Should I Say to an Insurance Adjuster?
If you are contacted by an insurance adjuster after an accident it is important to know your rights. What you say can and will be used against you.
What to do (and say) if you are contacted by an adjuster:
- Do remain calm and professional. Even if things become contentious, you need to try and remain calm. Saying things out of frustration could ultimately hurt your claim. Always be respectful and polite throughout any interactions with an adjuster.
- Do state the facts. When speaking with a claims adjuster you should state the facts. You do not need to go into detailed information or offer explanations for anything that happened before, during, or after the incident.
- Do ask for the insurer's name and contact information. Keeping detailed notes about your conversations with an adjuster can help you in the event that your claim is denied. Write down who you are speaking with and what you discussed for future reference.
Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company. They are skilled in trying to get injured parties to settle their cases for less than they are worth. It is important to stay calm and remember that you have the right to discuss your case with an attorney before making any statements about your accident or injuries.
What Should I Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?
While there are things that you can say to an insurance adjuster, there are definitely things that you should not. A claims adjuster may use the things that you say to downplay your injuries, deny your claim, or put you at fault for the accident.
What you should not do (or say) when speaking to an adjuster:
- Do not discuss your injuries. In general, you will be speaking with an adjuster within a few days or weeks after the accident. In most cases, you will not know the full extent of your injuries at that time. Without knowing the true impact of the harm it would be difficult to state how hurt you are and what kind of treatment you will need.
- Do not say yes to making a statement. You should never make a written or recorded statement about the accident or your injuries without speaking to an attorney.
- Do not agree to a settlement offer. You should not feel pressured into accepting a settlement offer. Under most circumstances, early settlement offers rarely reflect the true value of your case. You should only accept a settlement after you have discussed your claim with an attorney.
If you were injured in an accident, the first call you should make is to an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and your legal options. An insurance adjuster does not represent you and may not be acting in your best interest.
Injured in an Accident? Contact Our Office Today.
Were you injured in an accident? Contact our office at (717) 295-7009 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Get the superior results you deserve.
