Insurance adjusters are there for only one party’s interests, and it’s not yours. Insurance companies hire these adjusters to help them save as much money as possible.
When you file an insurance claim, you will be contacted by these insurance adjusters. They’d reach out to you, asking to meet up for a settlement. You need your lawyer with you at all times when negotiating with the insurance company. This is because they are likely to make requests from you, and these requests can be used against you.
Here are the top three requests from an insurance adjuster that you must be cautious about:
Confessions
The adjuster is a tactical officer. They have been in this game for years. They have mastered the best coaxing techniques. You must be careful not to recant your original claims during your first conversation.
You should have your attorney by your side during each meeting so that you do not make comments that will hurt your case. If you’re unsure of the best answer to the question they ask, consult your attorney before you give one.
Be careful not to admit your fault, especially if you live in fault-based states such as Ohio. Even if you had a part to play in the accident, the adjuster does not need to know that. Even with the smallest admission of fault, they can get your claims thrown out.
You should also learn to be certain of your utterances. Do not say things like “I think…” or “I’m not sure.” The adjuster will notice this and try to manipulate the discrepancy.
Also, you must never admit to the adjuster that you only incurred a minimal injury. Even if physical injuries to your body are rare, you should focus on the psychological effects of accidents. Your therapist can give their professional opinion on how much mental damage the accident caused you, and you can use this in your defense.
Access to Medical Records
During the discussion, the adjuster is likely to ask you to sign a release form that allows them access to your medical records. They may manipulate you into thinking they only want to assess the full weight of your current situation and empathize with you.
Never fall for this trick. They are only interested in your medical history so they can scour your records and look for traces of any underlying illnesses that could trigger the condition you presently suffer from.
Speak with your attorney to decide what reports to lend them. Again, on no account should you sign a medical records release!
Read Also: Factors Determine the Price of an Auto Insurance Policy
Waiver of Rights
Some adjusters may ask you to sign documents that include a waiver of certain rights or legal actions. You must go through these documents meticulously and fully understand the consequences of signing the waiver.
Ask your attorney to go over it and have them confirm to you that there are no hidden clauses.
When you sign a waiver, you may be giving up your ability to pursue legal action in the future. Insurance companies always look for ways to minimize future liabilities. So they draft these waivers as a means to achieve this.
Furthermore, remember that you have the right to take your time in making this decision. Don’t feel pressured to sign documents without taking the time to make an informed decision. Take the necessary time to weigh your options, review the document carefully, and consult your attorney as much as possible.
Wrapping Up
Insurance adjusters will do everything legally possible to railroad you into settling for an amount that is much less than what you initially bargained for. If you’re not careful, you might end up forfeiting the entire compensation.
You should invest time and effort into finding an experienced attorney to handle your case. With them by your side, you’ll jump through all the traps the adjusters set in your path.