If you have been injured in a car accident caused by another party, you must be careful about the people you talk to and the words you say. Insurance adjusters may get in touch with you immediately to try to convince you to settle your claim for as little money as possible. Or they may want you to admit fault. You should consult with a Mount Washington Car Accident Lawyer first before you talk to a representative from the insurance company. This way, you don’t end up saying something that can jeopardize your car accident claim. Insurance adjusters will use deceitful tactics to protect their company’s bottom line. These tactics include the following:
Contacting You Right After the Crash
Insurers will want to get to your first, so they can gain your trust and ensure you don’t hire an attorney. They are aware of the implications when claimants are represented by attorneys. Usually, legally-represented victims can get more money in settlements than those who tackle the claim on their own. The insurance adjuster will convince you to accept their lowball settlement offer before you can understand the extent of your injuries and losses.
Telling You that You Don’t Need a Lawyer
An insurance adjuster will try to convince you that don’t need a lawyer to get a better settlement deal. They may tell you that an attorney’s fees will negate the additional compensation the lawyer can get for you. While an attorney gets a percentage of your settlement or verdict, you still have enough money after all deductions. This will be a win-win situation for you and your attorney.
Asking You to Sign Some Documents
It is common for insurance adjusters to ask claimants to sign papers that take away their right to further compensation. Or they may also ask you to sign a medical release form. You must not sign any document from the adjuster because this can only ruin your claim. You should consult with your attorney first before you take this type of action.
Asking You to Provide them with Recorded Statements
Never let the adjuster record your conversation with them, no matter what their excuses are. During the conversation, you may end up saying something that the adjuster will use against you or your claim later. Just tell them that you won’t make any statement without consulting your attorney.
Insurance is an important kind of protection you must have. However, it may not be on your side when you need your coverage most. You should not give up your right to just compensation that covers your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Ensure you consult with your attorney before you make decisions related to your car accident claim.