When we first work with clients, one of the first things we do is advise them on some of the most common tactics that an insurance adjuster is likely to take part in. In a perfect world, you could simply tell them the truth, they would investigate, and you would get a fair settlement. Unfortunately, this is far from what typically happens.
Keep reading to find out about two of the most common tactics they use to try and reduce or deny claims. Then contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 if you have been involved in a car accident and need to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney. We are happy to begin the process with a free legal consultation.
They Will Try to Get You to Admit That You Were at Fault
You can count on the insurance adjuster to want to be in regular communication with you. They may act as though they are worried about your wellbeing. They may seem nice, friendly, and fair. The truth is that they are trying to get you to say something that will hurt your case. In many cases, this involves trying to get you to admit that you were at fault.
They may ask you questions about whether or not it is possible you could be partially at fault. They may ask you to repeat the details of the accident over and over again until you say something that contradicts with a previous statement. You should never talk to the insurance adjuster without first talking to your attorney. Once you have hired an attorney, we will take care of all future correspondence with them.
They Will Try to Get You to Accept Less Than You Should
Insurance adjusters know that most people who are involved in accidents do not know the law. They know that those who are injured may be going through shock. They may use these facts in an attempt to convince the injured party to take a lower settlement than they are owed. They can make a settlement sound fair by listing everything the settlement covers – medical costs, lost wages, etc. However, it is a safe bet that if it is the insurance company’s first offer, it is not a good one.
Often the issue is that they are only offering compensation for past damages. For example, it may be nice to have them cover past medical bills but what about future medical bills caused by the accident? What about future lost wages? What about property damage? What about pain and suffering? These are all damages that an insurance adjuster is not likely to offer on their own volition.
If you have been injured in an accident then there is a single first step to take: Contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation. We are standing by to ensure you get a fair deal.
