The aftermath of a car accident can be a traumatic and distressing time in your life. Because of this, our attorneys at Maison Law offer representation to those who have been injured in serious and catastrophic accidents throughout California. We understand the ins and outs of how to deal with the insurance company and achieve financial support for you that you need to get back on your feet. Please contact us for more information and a free case consultation today.
What Does the Insurance Adjuster Do After an Accident?
Insurance adjusters are a useful tool in the event of an accident, as they are in charge of investigating a claim, determining liability, determining a fair claim payout, and more. However, as an injured victim, it is important to remember that the insurance adjuster is not always on your side – as they work for the big insurance company, not for you. This means that they will do what it takes to minimize the financial support that is given to you after an accident.
One mistake that many injured victims make after a car accident is speaking with the insurance adjuster on their own. This is especially true when they start calling soon after you have been injured, leaving you in a vulnerable position. Knowing what to do when the insurance company calls is crucial when handling your claim successfully.
Steps to Take When an Insurance Adjuster Calls
An insurance adjuster will almost always call and appear sympathetic to you as a way to minimize your payout and have you give up important information that could be used against you in a claim. Keeping this in mind, there are some steps that you should take regarding a call with the insurance adjuster:
- Try to stay calm and polite as possible. If you come off as a cooperative person rather than somebody who is difficult to deal with, you are more likely to be heard.
- Ask for all vital information including the name of the adjuster, their contact details, and the insurance company that they work for.
- Stick to the basic facts such as your name, contact information, the location of the crash, and which vehicle was yours. Other than this basic information, you can decline to give any further details.
If the insurance adjuster calls, you have every right to give them as few details as possible and tell them that you are being represented by a lawyer. A legal advocate can fill in the details and negotiate with the insurance company for the best results when you have been injured in an accident caused by another party.
What You Should Never Say to an Insurance Adjuster
Of course, there are certain things that you should never say to an insurance adjuster after an accident so that you can protect your rights and best interests. These include some of the following:
- Never admit fault and accept the blame for an accident, as this will be used against you in your claim.
- Do not speculate on the severity of the injuries that you have received in the accident.
- Do not negotiate with the insurance adjuster on your own regarding settlement amounts.
- Refuse to give a full recorded statement without a lawyer present.
- Do not give in-depth accident descriptions without a lawyer.
- Do not agree to sign anything without having a lawyer look at it first.
By asserting your rights and keeping these aspects in mind, you can successfully deal with the insurance company and focus on your physical recovery after an accident.
Contact a California Personal Injury Lawyer Immediately
Strong representation is crucial after a California accident that left you with serious injuries. At Maison Law, we understand the tricks that insurance companies may try to use after an accident and will diligently work to protect your rights in your time of need. From the beginning of your case, our California personal injury lawyers will investigate your claim and provide you with much-needed resources as you work toward an ideal settlement or trial. Please contact us today for a no-obligation and completely confidential case consultation so that you can find out what your case could be worth.
