Getting into a car accident can be one of the most devastating situations, especially if the accident happens due to someone else’s negligence. Soon after you file a car accident claim, the insurance company will appoint the designated adjuster who will be responsible for handling your claim. These insurance adjusters are trained employees of the insurance company, which means they will try their best to find loopholes in your claim and reduce the compensation amount.
When speaking to an insurance adjuster, being careful is crucial. The insurance adjuster will consider every word that comes from your mouth and use it against you to lower compensation. Therefore, speak to your Salem car accident attorney before talking to the insurance adjuster.
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Do not rush, and stay calm.
Insurance adjusters will try to catch you off-guard, knowing well when you are not in your best situation. During these vulnerable times, victims often end up saying things that are used against them and harm their claim. Additionally, if you panic, you may slip something you should not when speaking to them.
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Never apologize or say you are doing “fine.”
When the insurance adjuster calls, it is normal to respond that you are doing fine when they ask how you have been. While it may not sound like a big deal for you, the insurance adjuster will note your words and claim that you accepted you are doing okay. Similarly, a simple “sorry” will be considered an admission of guilt and give the insurance company a point to lower your compensation amount.
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You do not have to give a recorded statement.
The insurance adjuster will approach you to provide them with a recorded statement. A recorded statement is you narrating the details of the accidents. You may say things that will harm your claim during the recorded statement. Moreover, once you speak, there is no way to take your words back. Therefore, you must politely refuse to provide a recorded statement. Instead, you can give a written statement which will give you more control over what you say to the insurance company.
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Always preserve the conversation that you are having with the insurance adjuster.
Most of the time, the conversation between you and the insurance adjuster will be in a formal way. Whether written or oral, always preserve what you are communicating. This evidence will help your lawyer understand how the insurance adjuster is approaching you and work accordingly to get the desired compensation.
