After filing a personal injury claim for injuries and other damages sustained in an accident, you will likely have to work with an insurance adjuster. These individuals are trained to minimize the amount of money their company has to pay for claims, so it is important that you understand how to protect yourself and your rights. Continue reading to learn what you should and should not say to an insurance adjuster, and work with a Pikeville, KY personal injury lawyer for skilled representation.
What Does an Insurance Adjuster Do?
An insurance adjuster investigates and values claims on behalf of an insurance provider. They gather and examine evidence like photos, surveillance footage, police reports, medical records, property damage, and witness statements to determine whether a claim is valid and covered by the policyholder’s insurance. They generally work to minimize the amount of compensation that the insurer is required to pay.
What Should I Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?
Because insurance adjusters tend to prioritize the financial interests of their employer over fairly compensating individuals for their claims, it is important to understand what you should and should not say to them. Even if you are well-meaning, your words could be taken out of context and skewed to harm your claim.
For example, never admit fault for the accident. It may feel natural to say that you’re sorry, you should have been paying closer attention, you didn’t see the other person, etc. However, statements like these can be interpreted as an admission of liability, which can bar you from recovering compensation.
Additionally, you may instinctively say that you’re fine if the insurance adjuster asks how you’re feeling. However, they can use that answer as evidence that you are not injured or that your injuries are minor and do not require a large payout. Downplaying your injuries can backfire, especially if you develop more serious symptoms later on.
The insurance adjuster may also ask about prior injuries or pre-existing conditions. While you should never lie about your medical history, it is important to understand that their questions may be designed to pin the blame on another situation and claim that your injuries occurred at a different time. It is always wise to proceed with caution when discussing your medical record.
It is also important that you do not make speculations about the accident to the insurance adjuster. If they ask you a question that you do not know the answer to, say that. Guessing or making assumptions can come back to haunt you, and if your answer is wrong, it can damage your credibility.
Dealing with an insurance adjuster can be overwhelming and stressful, especially when you are trying not to say the wrong thing. The best thing you can do is obtain the help of a skilled attorney during your claim. They will help you navigate the process and ensure you do not say or do anything that could be detrimental to your claim. Reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney today for more information and legal counsel.
