Posted on Saturday, January 1st, 2022 at 9:45 pm
Many people file an insurance claim after an accident. If someone’s negligence caused your injuries, you likely want to seek the compensation you’re entitled to so you can cover your medical bills and other expenses. You might think you can handle the claims process yourself, but many factors could prevent you from securing the money you’re owed.
Insurance adjusters often seem caring, friendly, and willing to help claimants. However, insurance companies want to avoid paying large settlements whenever possible. The adjuster you work with could find a valid reason to deny your claim or intimidate you into accepting a low offer. If you don’t know the maximum available coverage and your rights, you might feel tempted to take any amount of money you can get.
The things you say could negatively impact your insurance claim. It’s critical to communicate with the insurance adjuster carefully. Saying the wrong thing could result in much less compensation than you deserve.
Below are the phrases you should avoid when talking to an insurance adjuster. If you need to know more, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
“I Think…”
It’s a good idea to be respectful of the insurance adjuster. You should be polite and accommodating while they’re working on your claim. However, avoid making speculations about the accident. Unless you’re 100 percent sure of what happened, refrain from providing information the adjuster requests.
Speculating about the events leading up to the accident could backfire in the future. If you offer your opinion of the circumstances and change your story later, the adjuster will likely assume you’re lying. They might think you’re providing made-up information to secure a higher settlement.
“I’m Also Responsible”
Never admit partial fault for an accident. Even if you believe your actions somehow contributed to your injury, the insurance adjuster doesn’t need to know that. Your words could come back to haunt you later, especially if the insurance adjuster finds evidence of shared fault. They could deny any liability on their policyholder’s part and reject your demand for a settlement.
When you talk to the insurance adjuster about your claim, your statements become evidence. The adjuster can use whatever you say against you if it works in their favor. Admitting even one percent of the responsibility for the accident is enough reason for the adjuster to determine you’re not entitled to the full insurance coverage amount.
“I’m Not that Hurt”
Not all accidents result in severe or life-threatening injuries. Sometimes, there’s a minor injury that might not require much medical attention. However, you shouldn’t tell the insurance adjuster you didn’t get hurt or don’t feel injured even if you don’t have serious symptoms.
It could take days before the adverse effects of the accident arise. You might think you suffered a mild concussion or sprained your ankle but find out later from your doctor that the accident caused something more severe. The adjuster will likely assume you’re exaggerating your condition or pretending you’re hurt if you make conflicting statements about your injury.
“I Will Provide a Recorded Statement”
It’s common for the at-fault party’s insurance adjuster to reach out to the accident victim to discuss the case. They could ask you for a recorded statement so they can ask you questions about the incident and record your responses. They might tell you it’s the law or try to convince you it would be in your best interest to comply with their request.
However, you don’t have to provide a recorded statement to someone else’s insurance company. You are not in a contract with them, so you’re not obligated to discuss anything regarding the accident with them. You should politely decline and avoid discussing the matter further.
“I Accept Your Offer”
If the insurance company offers a settlement, you shouldn’t accept it until you consult a personal injury lawyer. It might not be the maximum amount available. Many times, adjusters will start settlement negotiations with a low offer and hope the injured party will accept. If you don’t know whether you’re entitled to more money, you might feel tempted to resolve your claim so you can pay for your incurred costs.
Most people don’t realize they can negotiate an insurance settlement. You don’t have to accept the first offer presented to you. It’s usually not the highest number. You might feel pressure from the insurance company to take whatever they say they’re willing to give. However, it would be beneficial to discuss all options with your lawyer first. Contact us today if you have pressing questions about your case.
Contact Us
The Law Offices of Briggs & Briggs has represented accident victims like you since 1952. We know how to handle personal injury cases and recover the maximum possible compensation for our clients in Washington.
You won’t be alone during the complicated process of seeking compensation for your injuries and losses. We can take over your insurance claim and communicate with the insurance adjuster on your behalf. Our legal team will be here to fight for your rights and the justice you deserve.
If you suffered injuries in an accident someone else caused, do not hesitate to call The Law Offices of Briggs & Briggs at (253) 588-6696 for your free consultation.
