Insurance adjusters are essentially financial investigators employed by insurance companies. Their job is to assess the damage caused by the accident and determine a settlement amount for your claim.
These insurance adjusters might seem helpful at first, but keep in mind that their primary goal is to minimize the payout the insurance company has to make.
No matter what happens, never accept the first offer. Run it by your car accident attorney first before you do anything else.
The Tricks that the Insurer Uses
Insurance companies are in the business of making money, and that often means minimizing the compensation they give.
Adjusters are essentially financial investigators employed by these companies, and their job is to assess the damage caused by the accident and determine a settlement amount. Here’s why blindly trusting the adjuster can be risky:
Downplaying Your Injuries
They might try to downplay the severity of your injuries by questioning your symptoms or suggesting they’re pre-existing. Remember, they don’t have your medical history, and their goal is to settle for less. They might even suggest you wait to see a doctor, hoping your injuries will seem less serious later.
Rushing the Settlement
Adjusters might pressure you to accept a quick settlement offer before you’ve even had a chance to fully understand the extent of your injuries and the potential long-term costs.
This could leave you financially strapped down the road, especially if you experience unforeseen complications later.
Twisting Your Words
Be aware that adjusters might try to manipulate your statements. They might record conversations or ask leading questions to get you to say something that weakens your claim.
It’s best to be cautious about what information you disclose. Avoid discussing the accident in detail beyond the basic facts, and stick to the truth.
Ignoring Certain Damages
Lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, and even mental anguish are all valid components of your claim. An adjuster might try to overlook some of these damages to reduce the overall settlement amount.
How You Can Protect Yourself
So, what can you do to avoid falling victim to these tactics? Here are some crucial steps to take:
● Seek Medical Attention
This is the top priority. Getting a medical evaluation documents your injuries and establishes a baseline for potential future complications. Don’t let the adjuster talk you out of seeing a doctor – your health comes first.
● Gather Evidence
You can take pictures of the accident scene, your vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect witness statements if possible.
This documentation strengthens your case and helps demonstrate the severity of the accident.
● Don’t Discuss the Accident in Detail
Be polite with the adjuster, but limit your conversation to the basic facts of the accident, such as the date, location, and parties involved.
Avoid disclosing details about your injuries or discussing fault. Remember, they might be recording the conversation.
● Consult a Lawyer
An experienced personal injury lawyer is vital in the process. They know how to navigate the tactics of the insurance company and negotiate a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages.
They can also advise you on what information to share with the adjuster and how to handle any communication.
How Your Lawyer Can Protect You
A skilled lawyer can be your biggest asset when dealing with an insurance company and their adjusters.
They will review the details of your accident, assess the severity of your injuries, and determine the full scope of your damages. This includes both current and potential future costs.
Also, you should know that these lawyers are skilled negotiators who know how to deal with insurance companies and their adjusters. They can fight for the compensation you deserve, pushing back on tactics like downplaying injuries and lowball settlement offers.
