Being the victim of an accident can be chaotic, no doubt. But, amidst the chaos, there’s one thing you can (and should) prepare for: the talk with the insurance adjuster.
This conversation holds the key to getting the compensation you deserve. So it’s important to be informed.
You might need a car accident lawyer by your side to guide you through the process so you don’t fall prey to the tricks of the insurance adjuster.
The adjusters aren’t mind readers (although sometimes it might feel that way). They rely on the information you provide to build a picture of what happened. So, what exactly can you expect them to ask?
Here are the most common Q&As to prepare you for the conversation.
1. Were you using your phone or any electronic devices while driving?
This is a common question in today’s tech-driven world. Be honest, but if you weren’t using your phone, state that clearly. “No, I was not using my phone while driving.” If you were using a hands-free device for navigation, you could mention it but emphasize that it wasn’t a distraction.
2. Have you ever filed a claim for a similar accident in the past?
This is a question to assess your accident history. Be truthful, but remember, the current situation is what matters.
You can say something like, “Yes, I was involved in a minor fender bender a few years ago, but this accident is completely different.” Then briefly explain the past incident without sharing too much information.
3. Can we get a statement from your passengers?
If there were other people in the car, the adjuster might want to speak with them. This can be helpful in corroborating your story. Make sure your passengers are comfortable speaking with the adjuster before offering their contact information.
4. Have you posted this on social media?
This might seem like a random inquiry, but the adjuster might ask if you’ve posted anything about the accident on social media.
You have to be mindful that anything you post online can potentially be used against you, so it’s best to avoid discussing the accident in detail publicly until your claim is settled.
5. Can we have a recorded statement?
The adjuster might ask to record your conversation. While you’re not obligated to agree, be aware that anything you say in a recorded statement can be used to interpret your words in a way that benefits the insurance company.
If you do agree to a recording, make sure you understand what will be recorded and how it will be used.
How Adjusters Try to Shift the Blame
The adjuster might try to nudge you into accepting some responsibility for the accident. This could be a tactic to downplay the other driver’s role or potentially reduce your compensation.
When this is happening, don’t speculate or use phrases like “I think” or “maybe” when describing the other driver’s actions.
Focus on what you know for sure. Perhaps you could say something like, “The car in the oncoming lane suddenly swerved into my lane, forcing me to take evasive action.” This statement is clear, factual, and avoids assigning blame to anyone.
Should they press you with questions that imply fault, politely but firmly restate your perspective. “As I mentioned before, the other driver was clearly in the wrong lane.”
How to Talk About Your Injuries
The adjuster might also want to know the specifics of your injuries. This could be a genuine attempt to understand the situation, or it could be a tactic to downplay the severity of your injuries.
The best way to navigate this conversation is to be truthful about any pain you’re experiencing and mention if you’ve sought medical attention. A simple “I’m experiencing some pain in my neck and back, and I’m on my way to see a doctor now” is sufficient.
Leave the details of your treatment or prognosis to the medical professionals. You can say, “The doctor will be able to give me a clearer picture of the extent of my injuries.”
Also, if the accident has impacted your daily activities, you can mention it briefly. “The pain is making it difficult for me to focus at work right now.” This doesn’t go into specifics but acknowledges the potential impact.
Let Your Lawyer Take Charge
Consulting a lawyer doesn’t automatically mean you’re filing a lawsuit. In many cases, simply having legal representation can prompt the insurance company to take your claim more seriously and offer a fairer settlement.
In the end, the decision of whether or not to involve a lawyer is yours. But if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the insurance claim process, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance.
