Tips for Talking to an Insurance Adjuster Following a Truck Accident
A truck accident can be overwhelming, and the damages can be significant. When pursuing a truck accident claim with an insurance company, whether you’re filing through your insurance or the at-fault party’s insurer, you must know how to approach the conversation. Your communication with an insurance adjuster has to be carefully considered since saying the wrong thing, even unintentionally, can jeopardize your claim or significantly reduce your compensation. This article offers practical advice when speaking with an adjuster to help you safeguard your rights and increase your chances of a fair settlement.
What Is an Insurance Adjuster?
An insurance adjuster is the person responsible for handling your claim. Their tasks include reviewing police reports, gathering evidence, speaking to witnesses, and assessing damages you have incurred. While they may seem helpful, remember that their ultimate goal is to save the insurance company money by minimizing your payout.
The following are key things to keep in mind when talking to the insurance claims adjuster:
- Get the Adjuster’s Details
Always begin by asking for the adjuster’s name, contact details, and the insurance company they represent. This information can come in handy when you need to follow up on the claim and also ensures you know exactly who you’re dealing with.
- Stay Calm and Polite
Even if you’re frustrated with the claims process or the accident, maintaining a calm and respectful demeanor is essential. Being rude may not help your case; it may even slow down your claim.
- Stick To the Facts
Keep your statements straightforward and factual. Avoid speculating, making assumptions, or assigning blame. If you’re unsure about an answer, it’s better to admit you don’t know than to guess. Also, avoid discussing unrelated personal matters, like your life, schedule, etc., as oversharing can give the adjuster ammunition to devalue your claim.
- Avoid Discussing Injuries in Detail
When asked about injuries, resist the urge to provide specifics. Let the adjuster know you’re receiving medical treatment and avoid elaborating. Misstatements about your injuries, like exaggerating or downplaying your injuries, can significantly impact your claim.
- Don’t Admit Fault
Never make statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault, such as “I should have been more careful.” In Florida, sharing fault can significantly reduce or even bar your compensation.
- Decline Recorded Statements
Politely refuse to give a recorded statement without first consulting an attorney. The adjuster can use your statement to highlight inconsistencies and weaken your case. Also, remember that you’re not legally required to provide one.
- Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers
If the adjuster suggests a specific offer, don’t be quick to accept it; initial offers often make the foundation for negotiations, and the adjuster knows that. It’s in your best interest to negotiate for a fair amount.
- Document Everything
Take detailed notes of your conversations with the adjuster, including dates, times, and key points discussed. This information can be crucial if disputes arise later.
What If I’ve Already Spoken to the Adjuster?
If you’ve already had conversations with an insurance adjuster, don’t worry. A skilled attorney can still help you navigate the claims process and receive your rightful compensation.
Contact an Orlando Truck Accident Lawyer
If you have been injured in a truck accident, contact our trusted Orlando truck accident lawyer at The Pendas Law Firm today to discuss your case.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Ocala, West Palm Beach, Jacksonville, Miami, Daytona Beach, Tampa, Bradenton, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2024/Chapter768/All#:~:text=GREATER%20PERCENTAGE%20OF%20FAULT.%E2%80%94In%20a%20negligence%20action%20to%20which%20this%20section%20applies%2C%20any%20party%20found%20to%20be%20greater%20than%2050%20percent%20at%20fault%20for%20his%20or%20her%20own%20harm%20may%20not%20recover%20any%20damages.
