If you have been in an accident, you will likely be contacted by an insurance adjuster. This person is responsible for assessing the damage to see if your claim is valid. It is important to remember that the insurance adjuster works for the insurance company, not for you. If you say the wrong thing, you could jeopardize your chance of getting compensated for your injuries. This blog post will discuss ten things you should never say to an insurance adjuster!
1. I Don’t Need A Lawyer – Saying this could imply that you don’t realize the seriousness of your situation or the potential value of your claim. Even if you do not hire a lawyer, it is important, to be honest with an insurance adjuster and consult an attorney before making any decisions.
2. It Wasn’t My Fault – Admitting fault or accepting blame can be used against you by the insurance adjuster to reduce the amount they are willing to pay out in the settlement. If you believe another person was at fault, do not admit fault; discussing the evidence with a personal injury lawyer will help you present a strong compensation case.
3. I Can’t Remember What Happened – If you are a victim of an incident, it is important to remember the details. Even minor details, such as the time of day, weather conditions, etc., can be used to support your case, so never say that you don’t remember what happened.
4. I Don’t Want To Sue – While this may seem honest, it is important to remember that personal injury cases rarely go to court, and most claims are settled before they even get there. Making this statement could also imply that you do not think you have a valid claim which could work against you if the case does end up in court.
5. I Don’t Care How Much Money I Get – Insurance adjusters are less likely to take you seriously if they believe you do not know the value of your claim. Discussing potential damages with a lawyer before talking to an insurance adjuster will help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses.
6. I Don’t Have Any Evidence – Having evidence such as photos and witness statements can be used to strengthen your case. If you don’t have any evidence, tell the insurance adjuster that you plan on collecting some soon, so they know you are serious about pursuing a claim.
7. It Was Just An Accident – Even if an accident was unavoidable, do not refer to it as “just an accident”; this statement implies that the incident was minor and you are unlikely to receive a large settlement if you downplay it.
8. I Am Already Living With The Consequences – An insurance adjuster could use this statement to reduce the amount they are willing to pay out in compensation, as it implies that you have already accepted your losses and will not require additional damages for pain and suffering.
9. I Wasn’t Hurt That Badly – Again, this statement could be used against you as it implies that your injuries were minimal and that you do not need compensation. If your injuries are more severe than initially thought, speak with a lawyer before talking to an insurance adjuster so they can discuss your options.
10. The Other Person Is To Blame – Do not admit fault or assign blame to the other person involved in the incident until you have discussed it with a lawyer and had them analyze the evidence. Doing so could reduce your chances of receiving compensation from their insurance company.
If you have been injured in an accident, it is important to remember that the insurance adjuster works for their employer, not for you! Before speaking with them, consult a personal injury lawyer so they can help ensure that you get fair compensation for your losses. Avoid saying these ten things, as they could risk your chance of receiving a settlement!
As always, contact our team here at The Law Office of Roberto Hernandez for more information on handling an insurance adjuster or discussing your case in full. We are here to help you recover from your injury and get the compensation you deserve!
