An insurance adjuster is a professional appointed to evaluate insurance claims. They make decisions regarding the claim’s validity and the settlement amount’s value. Insurance companies generally hire them. It is essential to keep in mind that they do not work for you and your well-being. Their prime goal is to reduce the settlement amount somehow and benefit the company.
Along with seeking a Cheyenne car accident lawyer, follow these tips to avoid being outsmarted by an insurance adjuster.
- Do not accept fault for the crash at any cost.
Even partial fault or liability should not be admitted after an accident. You should allow your legal attorney to handle the matter on your behalf. Insurance adjusters often try to manipulate the victims into accepting the accident. Victims admitting fault in such circumstances benefits the insurance company as partial blame by the other party can significantly reduce the amount of settlement initially decided. Thus, you should avoid taking any responsibility while talking to the adjuster, as they can use your words against you.
- Do not agree to get your statement recorded.
Insurance adjusters may try to coerce you into letting them record a statement from you after the accident. You will likely receive a call before you have even processed the trauma from the accident. You are not obligated to answer their calls unless you are fine. It would be better if you altogether avoided stating such circumstances. The insurance adjusters are looking for any material or evidence that can be used against you to deny or reduce your claim. Several risks involve giving a recorded statement right after an accident, as your brain may not be in the right state to formulate perfect answers. You may end up saying things that can cause irreparable damage to your case. Make sure to consult your attorney beforehand if you consider giving a statement.
- Avoid signing Release for Your Medical Records.
Insurance adjusters may try to get access to your medical history to evaluate it and find any existing health conditions that can be used to refuse treatment or other things that could harm you. Make sure not to sign any releases that permit them to check your health records.
- Do not agree to quick settlement offers.
Insurance adjusters tend to offer settlements of low amounts to convince the victim to give up their claim. Often, victims get underpaid for their damages. The extent of harm caused and their expenses go way beyond the small and limited compensation offered by adjusters. This ends up troubling the victim even more. Be skeptical of initial settlements and get them thoroughly evaluated by your attorney before making any concrete decisions.