After an accident, dealing with an insurance adjuster can be one of the most stressful parts of the claims process. Whether you’re recovering from a car accident, a slip and fall, or another type of injury, it is important to understand how insurance adjusters work.
Insurance adjusters use various tactics to avoid paying claims, and if you’re not careful, you could end up with a lower settlement than you deserve, or worse, nothing at all. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when you are going through the physical, emotional, and financial aftermath of an accident.
Being informed and prepared can help you avoid some common mistakes and give you the best chance of receiving the compensation you’re entitled to. Here are some tips to keep in mind when dealing with insurance adjusters.
1. Never Accept the First Offer
It’s tempting to accept the first settlement offer that comes your way, especially when you need quick cash. However, insurance adjusters often start with a low offer to see if you’ll take it. In most cases, the initial offer doesn’t come close to covering the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Before accepting any offer, carefully evaluate your damages with the help of a personal injury lawyer. They can help you understand the actual cost of your recovery so you don’t settle for less than what you deserve.
2. Don’t Talk Too Much or Give Statements
Insurance adjusters may ask you questions that seem innocent, but their goal is often to gather information that they can use against you. They may ask about your injuries or try to get you to admit fault, even if it wasn’t entirely your fault. Be mindful of your responses.
For example, if you say something like, “I’m feeling better,” they can use this to argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim. Avoid discussing the details of your case or giving statements without consulting a lawyer first. It’s best to let your attorney handle most communications with the adjuster to protect your interests.
3. Keep Track of Expenses
Your expenses quickly increase after an accident, from medical bills to car repairs and lost wages. Insurance adjusters may ask for evidence of your expenses. If you aren’t prepared, you could miss out on specific types of losses.
Keeping records of all your costs related to the accident is essential. You can include hospital visits, doctor’s appointments, prescriptions, and out-of-pocket expenses. If your injuries have kept you out of work, analyze your lost income. Clear documentation will strengthen your case and compensate you for all your losses.
4. Consult a Lawyer
Seek legal representation as soon as possible. Insurance adjusters are skilled in reducing the amount paid on claims, so they often do not look out for your best interests. On the other hand, a personal injury lawyer works for you and has experience in dealing with insurance companies.
An attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure you receive a fair settlement. They’ll also know how to handle tricky tactics and can fight to get you the full compensation you deserve. Many personal injury lawyers offer free consultations, so there’s little risk in speaking with one before deciding how to proceed.
5. Don’t Sign Documents Without Understanding Them
Insurance adjusters may ask you to sign documents. Don’t sign anything without fully understanding what it means. Some forms may give the insurance company access to your medical history, undermining your claim.
Others may waive your right to pursue further claims in the future. Before signing anything, review it with your lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected and that you’re not agreeing to something that could hurt your case later.
Conclusion
Dealing with insurance adjusters can be challenging and frustrating during the claims process. However, avoiding common mistakes and being cautious in your interactions can improve your chances of securing a fair settlement.
Remember that insurance adjusters use various strategies to avoid paying claims. So, consulting a personal injury lawyer is a good option to fight for the compensation you deserve.
