After an accident and injury, an insurance adjuster is often the only thing standing between you and your compensation. When speaking with an insurance adjuster, it is important to be careful with your words and understand what you should and should not say. For more information and to obtain skilled legal advice, contact a New Jersey personal injury lawyer today.
What is an Insurance Adjuster?
An insurance adjuster, also referred to as a claims adjuster, is an employee of an insurance company whose job is to investigate claims. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, review police reports, and examine medical and property damage records to determine whether a claim is valid and covered by the policyholder’s insurance.
Whether the adjuster is from your or the at-fault party’s insurance provider, it is important to understand that their goal is to limit the amount of money that their employer has to pay in damages. Therefore, they will always be looking for ways to reduce compensation or deny a claim, which is why it is important to be careful when speaking with them.
What Should I Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?
Even if they seem nice, it is important to remember that insurance adjusters are not on your side. When dealing with one, keep in mind that it is wise to avoid saying the following.
- Admissions of fault: Saying “I’m sorry,” “It’s my fault,” “I didn’t see them,” or anything similar to these phrases is music to an insurance adjuster’s ears. While you may think you are being polite, you are really admitting to being responsible or partly responsible for the accident. The adjuster can use those phrases to reduce the amount you are compensated or deny your claim outright.
- Downplaying injuries: It is important that you do not overexaggerate or downplay your injuries. If you tell the insurance adjuster that you are fine or doing okay, they could interpret your words as if you are not severely injured and do not need a significant amount of compensation.
- Hypotheses about the accident: Do not speculate or hypothesize about the accident. If the adjuster asks you something that you do not remember or did not see, don’t guess or make assumptions. This could backfire if you are wrong and lead to accusations regarding your credibility, which can impact the outcome of your claim.
- Pre-existing conditions: In an effort to reduce your compensation, the adjuster will likely inquire about pre-existing conditions or injuries. While you should never lie about it, be careful not to say anything that gives them the ability to blame your current injuries on a prior situation.
- Recorded statements: You may be asked to provide a written or recorded statement. It is easy to make a mistake or say something that will backfire, so avoid putting a statement on the record without consulting your attorney.
An insurance adjuster’s goal is to limit the amount their company pays, and they are skilled at getting you to say or do things that will hurt your claim. It is important to protect your right to compensation. Work with a skilled attorney for more information today.
