Before an insurance provider pays a car accident claim it depends on an adjuster to investigate an accident and determine liability. Usually, the adjuster may seem friendly and sincere; however, their intention is to protect the best interest of the company they work for. And whatever they may say to them can affect how they will perceive your case. If you are not careful, this could cost you money. But because you may have to speak with them at some point following the crash, you must know what you must and must not say to them. A Philadelphia car accident attorney can enlighten you on this matter and guide you through each step of the claims process.
If you have been involved in a crash and are getting calls from an insurance adjuster, your lawyer can help. They can handle communications with the adjuster for you.
What Can You Tell the Adjuster?
Whenever you speak to a claims adjuster regarding your accident claim, remember that they will always save their company money by reducing your claim. In general, it is best to have interactions with them go through your attorney. But if you haven’t hired a lawyer, you can give the adjuster basic facts and details like your name, contact information, where and when the accident occurred, information about the cars involved, the information of the other driver, and eyewitness information. Never give them information like your employment and financial status. Also, you should not give guesses about what took place.
How the Adjuster Determines Fault and Compensation
The adjuster will determine who they think causes the crash by assessing different pieces of evidence associated with your case. Also, they may review local laws and court cases to know if a party committed legal violations.
After they assign fault, the adjuster will examine several factors to determine the amount of money their employer owes. Often, their initial settlement offer is lower than your claim’s total value. They make this offer hoping that you will accept it out of desperation, saving the insurance company money.
If the adjuster gives a settlement offer early in your claim, don’t accept. You must consult with a lawyer first to understand the extent of your injuries and the amount of compensation you are entitled to. When you accept the offer, you won’t be able to pursue additional compensation later, which may be necessary if your injury gets worse.
