Tips for Talking to an Insurance Adjuster After an Accident
The days and weeks after an accident can be very confusing and frustrating. As you work to heal physically and emotionally from injuries sustained in the accident, you must also deal with the financial aspects of an injury claim.
In many cases, the insurance adjuster for the other party may contact you before you have the chance to consult with an attorney. It is important that you are very careful in how you deal with the adjuster because what you do and say can have a significant impact on your injury claim.
We urge you to call our office at (888) 500-5000to speak with a Fresno accident attorney as soon as possible after an accident. If possible, you should consult with an attorney before you talk to the insurance adjuster.
Things to Consider When Talking to an Insurance Adjuster
Anything You Say Can Be Used Later in Your Case
Anything you say to the adjuster can be used later against you. For example, if you say that you were in a hurry because you were late to work, this could be misconstrued to allege you were speeding. If you say that you cannot remember if the light was yellow or red, the adjuster may try to claim that your faulty memory means that your other statements cannot be relied upon to determine fault.
For this reason, it is in your best interest not to provide any written or recorded statements until you have met with an attorney. You should also limit what you say to the adjuster during your conversation. Avoid discussing the details of the collision. The adjuster may push you for details, but you are not required to answer any questions without discussing your case with an attorney first. You can be polite and state that you prefer to meet with your attorney and have your attorney respond to these questions. Do not let the adjuster intimidate you — the adjuster cannot force you to talk to him.Be Careful About Providing Personal Information
The adjuster may say that he is simply calling to check up on you to make sure you are recovering and getting the medical care you need. He may strike up a conversation with you about personal matters. Do not provide any personal details other than your name, address, and contact number. You are not required to provide information about your work, family, prior medical history, or other personal information.Ask for the Adjuster’s Information
Some adjusters work for the insurance company and other adjusters work for third parties. Before discussing anything with an adjuster, ask for his name and contact information. Confirm whether he is an employee of the insurance company or works for a third party. If the adjuster works for a third party, ask for the company name and contact information.Details About the Crash and Your Injuries
The adjuster will likely pressure you for details of the crash and your injuries. It is best not to go into detail until after you meet with an attorney. Again, what you say during this conversation can have a significant impact on your ability to recover full compensation for your claim.
Call a Fresno Attorney Now
Call the Fresno injury lawyers of Torem & Associates at (888) 500-5000to request a free consultation and no-obligation case evaluation.
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