Do you know what the most challenging task is after you get into an accident? You might have never guessed it – but – dealing with insurance adjusters can be the most difficult thing to do after an accident.
Without further ado, let us jump into the list of things that you should never say to the insurance adjusters during negotiation. This will also help you understand why we stress having a lawyer right from the start after you have gotten into an accident.
Let’s dive right into it.
Never Admit Your Mistake
We know that you are a good human being and that you have integrity – but – you can never make the mistake of admitting your fault or your part in contributing to the accident. Despite the fact that in your heart, you might know that you were not really paying attention on the road but thinking about the argument that you had with your partner –still- you can admit it to your partner or lawyer later.
But – no matter what you do – do not admit your mistake to the insurance adjusters. We emphasize not even letting out the slightest hint that you were guilty. You might feel the need to apologize – but – don’t do it.
Don’t let a habitual apology slip because the insurance adjusters will use it against you and translate it as a way for you to apologize and admit fault for the accident.
The consequences – you might ask? Well, the consequences will be that your claim will be denied, or you will receive way less compensation than what you originally deserved.
What to do instead?
Now, if you are in the habit of apologizing or you feel overwhelming guilt – you should shift your mindset and focus on the facts instead. What we mean is that you shouldn’t be focusing on your feelings when speaking to insurance adjusters. Instead, focus on your logical reasoning and provide accurate facts about the accident.
What you can do is to describe truthfully how the events unfolded and how things happened. While you are at it – stick to the facts only and never give your persona opinions on what happened and why it happened.
It is the job of the insurance adjusters to investigate the accident and determine the driver who was a fault for the accident. So, stick to the facts and avoid giving out personal views. Always remember – whatever you say can and will be used against you. The insurance adjusters are professionals who know how to protect their profits. Beware their tactics and stick to the facts.
Do Not Speculate or Make Assumptions
Yes – we know how things are. We humans love to speculate, over-speculate, and assume that things might have happened a certain way. Now, here is the accident: you can speculate and make assumptions to whatever extent you want at home or in the presence of a lawyer – but – avoid this risk in the presence of an insurance adjuster who clings to every word you say.
On that note – never agree to give a recorded statement, as it can negatively affect your claim. Keep your assumptions in mind and only narrate the facts because if you assume what might have happened, the insurance adjusters will use it to discredit your account and deny your claim.
What to do instead?
So, instead of assuming and speculating, your safest pathway is to stick to the facts. As we mentioned before, when dealing with insurance adjusters, your primary focus should be to narrate the facts about how the accident happened. You can stick to the following information:
- Location of accident
- Time of accident
- Weather conditions of the time
- Other details
Only narrate facts and leave the determination of fault part to the insurance adjusters and the police department.
Never Discuss Your Injuries
Of course, you must have sustained injuries during the accident. But – initially, it will be hard for you to determine the extent of your injuries. Before you even mention your injuries, you need a detailed medical assessment – only – then can you claim compensation with the help of your personal injury lawyer.
If you make the mistake of discussing your injuries, you can unintentionally minimize the severity of your injuries. We recommend discussing your injuries with your doctor and lawyer alone. What is even better – you should keep a diary of your injuries and record what you are feeling and the intensity of your pain in the diary.
This way, you can keep track of your symptoms and their development. If you make the mistake of discussing your injuries, the insurance company will use this information against you later and tell you that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim them to be later.
Call an Attorney and Expect the Best Outcome
If you were in Chicago when the accident happened, and you got injured, the personal injury attorneys in Chicago are probably your only well-wishers, as they will ensure your medical bills and lost wages get paid. Not only that – but – the best part is that your attorney will also handle the insurance company and maneuver the entire negotiation process for you, which means that you don’t have to worry about anything at all.
The best part is that you don’t have to feel intimidated by the insurance adjusters, as no one will be there to take full advantage of you. We recommend allowing your attorney to take over for you and with the help and professional experience, they will successfully negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
The Lawyer Has Your Back – No Matter What
You get the point – instead of dealing with the insurance adjusters yourself, hire a personal injury attorney as a means to represent you in all insurance communications. Don’t wait until it’s too late – call an insurance attorney right now and relax.
The attorney will always prioritize you and your needs, unlike the insurance adjusters, who are there to protect their profit margins first. You already know that the insurance company will do their best to hold you responsible for the accident damage whereas the lawyer will have your financial interest and your wellbeing in mind.
