Tips For Handling Insurance Adjustor Calls
Here's a familiar scenario: You have been in a two-car collision and you have sustained personal injuries. The other vehicle’s driver was at fault. You just started being treated for your injuries and already the medical bills are piling up. You expect to be out of work for a while and you have no idea when you can go back. You are starting to get worried about keeping up with all your payments.
The phone rings and it’s the insurance adjustor from the at-fault party’s insurance company. You might be in pain or under the influence of pain meds. But you answer the call.
It is really important that you avoid making any mistakes on that first call with the insurance adjustor. He or she is a pro at this. And they are looking to save their employer money, not to help you out.
Recorded Conversations
It is a trick of the trade in the insurance industry to say the call is being recorded “for quality assurance” purposes and then to be asked to make a recorded statement about the accident. You have every right to refuse to be recorded and to tell the adjustor that you do not consent to giving a recorded statement. You don’t have to explain why. Just clearly state your refusal. Just politely let them know that you will provide a written statement at a later date.
Personal Information
You are under no obligation to provide the insurance adjustor with your personal information. Just give them your name, address and phone number. If they press for more information, let them know that you are declining to answer at this time.
Details About Your Injuries
You are also under no obligation to furnish details about your injuries. Simply say you are seeking medical attention from a physician and that all the relevant information will be furnished at the appropriate time. Do not give the doctor’s name or explain what kind of medical provider you are seeing or why.
Money Talk
It is never a good idea to discuss settlement with an adjustor on the first call or to talk about money at all. It may be hard to turn down what seems like a great offer, especially if you are worried about bills, but it is worth it to wait. Often the full extent of injuries is not known right away and you don’t want to sell yourself short. It is always prudent to discuss what your case is worth with a Colorado Springs car accident lawyer and, if it makes sense, let them handle any settlement talks.
How a Colorado Springs Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
There is nothing pleasant about having to deal with an insurance company, either your own or the at-fault party’s. A Colorado Springs car accident attorney is in the best position to advise you on how to proceed.
Contact the personal injury attorneys at Levine Law online or by calling us at (719) 471-3000 for a free consultation about your case.
