After a car accident, especially when you have experienced an injury, you will probably be contacted by the insurer of the at-fault party. They will typically send out an insurance adjuster to discuss the details of the claim and the extent of your injuries. However, more than that, they are there to reduce their own liability in the accident. Therefore, if an insurance adjuster reaches out to you following an accident, be aware fo the three things you should not discuss or do without an attorney present.
Do Not Discuss the Accident
The first thing you should never do is discuss the accident. While there will likely be information that is available in crash reports, you do not need to add anything or corroborate the events. Keep in mind that anything you say can likely be used to negate individual claims. Don’t allow an insurance adjuster to use your words against you.
Do Not Allow Your Conversation to be Recorded
Many adjusters will ask if they can record your conversation. Politely decline. You are under no obligation to oblige such a request. While an insurance representative might seem kind and approachable, their job is to reduce the insurer’s liability. Therefore, they are not on your side when it comes to compensation for your injuries.
Do Not Sign Anything
Another common tactic used by insurance companies is to send paperwork through the mail, requesting your signature. What they are hoping for is that you will fail to read the documents thoroughly. Any paperwork provided to you by the insurance company should be reviewed by an attorney to ensure that you are not admitting guilt or signing away your right to seek damages. Therefore, do not sign anything without having an attorney review it.
Beyond the list of things to watch out for in conversations with an insurance adjuster, you also need to be careful of the things you say to family and friends. Also, if you are active on social media, avoid discussing the accident. Anything you say to anyone can be used in settlement negotiations or a possible trial to reduce the responsibility of the insurer.
While all of this can seem like a lot to keep in mind after an accident, it is all the more reason to hire a car accident lawyer. Lawyers with a background in auto accidents and injuries have a familiarity with insurance companies, and they also understand how to protect you from possible insurance adjuster traps.
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