At TLC Trial Team, we’re never surprised by the lengths an insurance company claims adjuster will go to in order to get out of taking full responsibility for their policy holder’s actions.
If you were in an auto accident in Lutz, Florida, that involved another vehicle, you will probably receive a call from the other vehicle’s insurance agency. They aren’t calling to see how you’re doing after the accident, they’re calling because they want to pay you as little as possible for your personal injuries and property damage. That’s their job.
The Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side
“The insurance companies are not on your side.” You’ve probably heard this on a thousand personal injury attorney commercials in your lifetime. And it’s true.
The person you’re talking to is called an insurance adjuster. Their job is to investigate claims and make decisions about settling those claims. Their goal is to get away with paying out as little as possible after an accident.
You see, the insurance companies are in business to make money. To them, settling a claim after an accident is losing money. The more they pay out, the less profit they realize. This means the insurance company is going to do everything they can to minimize the amount of money they pay you after your accident.
What to Say – and What Not to Say – When You Receive a Call From an Insurance Adjuster
When the insurance adjuster calls, we advise that you be polite — and careful. Always remember, what you say can be used against you by the other party’s insurance company. Here are some important tips to follow when speaking to a claims adjuster:
- You have the right not to speak with them.
- Don’t agree to have the conversation recorded.
- Tell them upfront that you do not intend to discuss the details of your case.
- Get the name address and phone number of the adjuster.
- Take notes.
- Don’t let them tell you the accident was your fault and don’t accept any fault for the accident.
- Don’t share information about your current medical condition.
- Don’t share information about any past medical condition.
- Never tell them you’re feeling “fine.”
- Don’t share your opinion about the accident.
- Don’t sign anything.
- They aren’t here to help you.
- Don’t agree to a settlement over the phone.
- Don’t agree to sign any statement or other document.
- Set limits on future phone contact.
- Tell them to talk to your lawyer.
Protect Your Rights After a Lutz Auto Accident
Being injured in a car accident is bad enough. Losing any chance for a settlement because of an offhand comment to an insurance adjuster is worse.
The best way to protect your rights in a situation like this is to seek the services of an experienced Lutz accident attorney. TLC Trial Team is dedicated to protecting your rights after being injured in an auto accident. We know how to deal with the insurance company claims adjusters and how to negotiate a fair settlement amount that fully compensates you for the damages caused by the other driver.
If you’ve been injured in a car crash, don’t speak to the insurance adjuster until you’ve spoken to us. The Lutz personal injury attorneys at TLC Trial Team are always available to speak with you about your case. Call us today to schedule a free, no obligation consultation. We can discuss your case, answer any questions and provide helpful legal advice on how to proceed in your case.
