Speaking to adjusters after a personal injury can be intimidating, but it’s important to know what to do and what not to do to protect your legal rights and maximize your compensation. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
Things you can do:
- Provide basic information, such as your name and contact information.
- Cooperate with the adjuster’s requests for information about the accident.
- Stick to the facts and avoid making assumptions about the accident or your injuries.
- Keep a record of all conversations with the adjuster, including the date, time, and content of the conversation.
- Consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement offer from the insurance company.
Let’s discuss these things:
Provide basic information, such as your name and contact information.
When speaking with insurance adjusters, it’s important to maintain a cooperative and professional stance. Start by providing the adjuster with your basic information, including your full name and accurate contact details. This will ensure that they can easily reach you throughout the claims process.
Cooperate with the adjuster’s requests for information about the accident.
Cooperating with the adjuster’s requests for information about the accident is crucial. They will likely ask you questions about the incident, such as the date, time, and location. By providing accurate answers, you help establish a clear timeline and context for your claim.
Stick to the facts and avoid making assumptions about the accident or your injuries.
While engaging with the adjuster, it’s essential to stick to the facts. Avoid making assumptions or speculations about the accident or your injuries. Instead, focus on providing objective information that can be supported by evidence.
Keep a record of all conversations with the adjuster, including the date, time, and content of the conversation.
Keeping a detailed record of all conversations with the adjuster is highly recommended. Note down the date, time, and content of each conversation. This documentation will serve as a valuable reference in case any discrepancies arise later in the process.
Before accepting any settlement offer from the insurance company, it is strongly advised to consult with an experienced attorney. They can review the offer and assess whether it truly reflects the full extent of your damages and losses. Having a legal professional on your side ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive adequate compensation.
Things you can’t do:
- Admit fault or apologize for the accident.
- Sign any documents without reading them carefully and understanding their implications.
- Discuss your injuries or medical treatment until you have a clear understanding of the extent of your injuries and the costs associated with your medical care.
- Provide a recorded statement to the adjuster without consulting with an attorney.
- Agree to a settlement offer without first consulting with an attorney.
Let’s discuss these things:
Admit fault or apologize for the accident.
One crucial mistake to avoid when speaking to insurance adjusters is admitting fault or apologizing for the accident. Even if you believe you may have contributed to the incident, it is best to let the legal professionals determine liability based on the available evidence. Any admission of fault can potentially harm your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Sign any documents without reading them carefully and understanding their implications.
Before signing any documents provided by the adjuster, take the time to carefully read and understand their implications. Some documents may contain clauses or language that could limit your rights or jeopardize your case. If you have any doubts or concerns, consulting with an attorney is always a wise choice.
Discuss your injuries or medical treatment until you have a clear understanding of the extent of your injuries and the costs associated with your medical care.
Discussing your injuries and medical treatment should be approached with caution. It is essential to have a clear understanding of the full extent of your injuries and the associated costs before engaging in conversations about these matters with the insurance adjuster. Without proper knowledge, you may inadvertently provide inaccurate information that could negatively impact the evaluation of your case.
Provide a recorded statement to the adjuster without consulting with an attorney.
Providing a recorded statement to the adjuster without consulting with an attorney is ill-advised. Such statements can be used against you, and without legal guidance, it is easy to inadvertently say something that could harm your interests. Consulting with an attorney ensures that you have proper guidance and protection throughout the claims process.
Agree to a settlement offer without first consulting with an attorney.
Lastly, agreeing to a settlement offer without first consulting with an attorney is a risk that you should avoid. Insurance companies may offer settlements that do not fully compensate you for your losses. By seeking legal advice, you can make an informed decision regarding the fairness of any settlement offer and negotiate for a more favorable outcome.
Looking for a trustworthy and experienced lawyer to handle your legal matter? Contact Jonny Law today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards protecting your legal rights and achieving a favorable outcome. Don’t wait, let Jonny Law fight for you!
