Secure Future GET STARTED WITH A FREE CONSULTATION
What You Should Know Before the Insurance Adjuster Calls
A call from an insurance adjuster is inevitable after an accident. It’s an important step that can significantly influence the outcome of your claim. However, many individuals unwittingly jeopardize their chances of fair compensation by being unprepared for these interactions. Insurance companies do everything in their power to minimize payouts, which often means employing a capable team of adjusters to manage claims.
When you're the claimant, understanding the role of an insurance adjuster and how to interact effectively with them can make all the difference in your settlement. Understand their tactics, know your rights, and learn how to secure the compensation you need for your recovery.
Understanding the Role of an Insurance Adjuster
An insurance adjuster is a professional hired by an insurance company to handle claims. They play a crucial role in the claims process, acting as the liaison between the injured party and the insurance carrier. Their primary objective is to protect the interests of the insurance company by:
Investigating the claim
Assessing the damage or injury
Determining the covered and non-covered aspects of the policy
Negotiating settlement terms
Despite the friendly demeanor they may present, adjusters are not your advocate. They represent the insurance company and their goal is to settle quickly and for as little money as necessary.
Potential Issues Involving Insurance Adjusters
While insurance adjusters play a key role in the claims process, they can also be a source of significant frustration. Understanding the potential issues can help you better prepare for these interactions and avoid common pitfalls. Some of the issues that may arise include:
Delay Tactics: Adjusters may intentionally delay the processing of your claim as a strategy to pressure you into settling for less. This can be particularly stressful if you are in dire need of funds for recovery or repairs.
Underestimation of Damages: Insurance adjusters might underestimate the extent of your damages or injuries to lower the company's payout. This often involves downplaying the severity of your situation or suggesting that some damages are not covered under your policy.
Request for Unnecessary Information: Sometimes adjusters request extensive documentation or information that is not directly relevant to your claim. This tactic can drag out the claims process and deter claimants.
Quick Settlement Offers: Adjusters may offer a quick settlement that is significantly lower than what you are entitled to. This approach preys on individuals who may be desperate for immediate financial relief, unaware that accepting this offer waives their right to seek additional compensation later.
Recorded Statements: They might ask for a recorded statement in hopes of getting you to say something that could undermine your claim. Be cautious about what you say and consider consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney before providing any statements.
Being aware of these potential issues can empower you to stand your ground and seek the full compensation you deserve. Remember, it’s within your right to consult with legal professionals to ensure your interests are adequately represented and protected throughout the claims process.
Your Rights and Responsibilities
Before the adjuster calls, it's important to understand what you are entitled to and what is expected from you. Your rights include:
The right to be treated fairly and in good faith
The right to receive an explanation of any coverage or settlement that pertains to your injury
Your responsibilities are to:
Cooperate with the insurance adjuster's investigation
Provide honest and accurate information
Understand your own policy and the coverage it provides
The more you know about your rights and responsibilities, the better you can protect your interests during the claims process.
Preparing for the Call
When the adjuster calls, it’s essential to be prepared. Here's what you can do to ensure you're ready for the conversation:
Review Your Policy: Understand what your insurance policy covers. Have a copy of your insurance policy on hand to refer to during the call.
Gather Documentation: Collect all evidence related to your claim, such as medical records, police reports, and any communications from the other party.
Understand the Process: Research the claims process so you know what to expect. Many adjusters start with a friendly conversation but remember, you're not obligated to discuss your settlement amount or the nature of your injuries in depth.
What to Expect: Anticipate questions about the accident, your injuries, and treatment. Be polite but don’t feel pressured to provide a recorded statement or sign any documents without legal advice.
By being well-informed and prepared for the conversation with an insurance adjuster, you're setting the stage for a more equitable and satisfactory resolution to your claim.
Negotiating Your Settlement
It’s inevitable that the adjuster will eventually make a settlement offer. Here’s how to approach this part of the process:
Be Patient: Don’t feel rushed into accepting any offer. Take your time to evaluate it and consult with professionals if necessary.
Counteroffers: If the initial offer is too low, consider making a counteroffer. Support your counteroffer with evidence of your damages.
Review the Settlement Agreement: Ensure you understand and agree with all the terms before signing off on a settlement.
Remember, adjusters are trained negotiators. If you’re uncomfortable with the negotiation process, it might be time to enlist the help of a personal injury attorney.
When to Seek Legal Help
Dealing with insurance claims can quickly become complex. Here are some signs that it's time to seek legal representation:
No Movement on Your Claim: If you're not making progress on your claim, an attorney can help move things forward.
Denial of Your Claim: If your claim is denied and you believe it's unjust, an attorney can help you appeal the decision.
High Stakes or Complexity: If you have significant damages, such as a long-term injury, or if liability is unclear, an attorney can help you understand your options.
An experienced personal injury attorney can provide valuable guidance on your rights, the value of your claim, and how to negotiate effectively with insurance companies.
Get Legal Support
Remember, the conversation with an adjuster is just one part of the larger claims process. Be prepared, remain informed, and don't hesitate to seek help if you feel overwhelmed or uncertain about handling your claim. Injuries can be traumatic, but the path to recovery, both physically and financially, begins with your preparedness and assertiveness in dealing with insurance adjusters.
At Robert Louis Armstrong Personal Injury Attorney, I'm ready to help you seek the compensation you deserve. Located in Wilmington, North Carolina, I proudly serve clients throughout all of North Carolina including New Hanover County, Pender County, Brunswick County, and Onslow County.