When you’re involved in an accident in NYC, while you’re still dealing with the pain and confusion of it all, you can expect a call from an insurance adjuster. While many people overlook it, they fail to recognize that this call can significantly influence their entire compensation claim. Adjusters are trained to spot weaknesses and capitalize on them to minimize payouts. As such, even an unassuming statement can have serious implications. At Alex Yadgarov & Associates, we have seen how careless statements can derail even the most robust claims. In this post, as an accident lawyer in New York, we’ll break down how you can protect yourself and your case when speaking with insurance adjusters after an accident.
Why Insurance Adjusters Call So Quickly After an Accident
To get the claim process underway, you must inform the insurance company about the accident. Once you’ve done so, you can expect a call from them within a few hours, or even a few minutes. While the adjuster may seem friendly and helpful, the intention behind the quick call is anything but friendly. Some of the key reasons for the quick return call include:
Gathering damaging information
Adjusters know that you will be in a vulnerable state soon after an accident. They know that you are in pain and may not know the full extent of your injuries. They will also bank on the fact that you’ve not yet contacted your accident lawyer in New York. In your vulnerable state, you may not be fully aware of everything you say. Even a casual, off-hand remark like “I’m fine” can be used to try and control the narrative, which can later be used to challenge your claim.
Pushing for quick settlements
The adjuster can offer a fast and enticing cash payout. They will try and convince you to accept the offer by employing various pressure tactics. Their hope is that you will accept the offer just to get things over with. However, keep in mind that the general rule is not to accept the first settlement offer. The value offered tends to be far less than what your claim is actually worth.
When you accept the offer, you will release the insurance company from future liability. Accepting early can come back to bite, especially when you don’t know the full extent of your injuries. The last thing you want is to settle for less, especially when you deserve more.
Internal Business Targets
From the adjuster’s point of view, closing claims quickly and under a certain value means points for an adjuster when their performance evaluation comes around. The adjuster trying to meet these goals will directly conflict with your goal of walking away with a favorable settlement.
Common Mistakes People Make when Talking to Insurers
Some of the common mistakes that can hurt your claim include the following:
- Giving recorded statements about the accident
- Minimizing the scope of your injuries with statements such as “I’m fine” and “I’m not hurt.”
- Admitting fault or apologizing for the accident
- Speculating on unknown details of the accident.
- Signing general authorizations involving medical history.
- Accepting quick settlement offers.
How Should You Handle a Conversation with an Insurance Adjuster
Protecting your rights and walking away with a favorable settlement has a lot to do with knowing how to navigate the conversation with the insurance adjuster. First, you should know that you’re not obliged to provide a detailed account of the accident or speculate on the facts. Instead, you should stick to the facts and basic information.
You should also note down the adjuster’s contact information and keep a log of the conversation. Be courteous and polite, but don’t agree to give everything they request without first consulting your accident lawyer in NYC. Also, don’t go to any negotiations without your attorney. Let your attorney take the lead in the negotiations and only speak when required. When you are unsure about what to say (and not to say), it’s always wise to have a quick chat with your attorney before you move forward.
How Can an Accident Lawyer in New York Help
When moving into settlement negotiations with insurance companies, your car accident lawyer in Queens, NY, is your sword and shield. They can:
- Take a look at the facts and explain your legal options.
- Set your expectations on the potential settlement.
- Gather evidence and build a strong and compelling case
- Work with experts to further refine your case.
- Handle all the paperwork and administrative functions in a timely manner.
- Train you on how to conduct yourself in a negotiation or inquiry.
- Handle the negotiations with insurance companies
- File legal action and represent you in court if necessary.
Conclusion
Talking with an insurance adjuster after an accident might seem like a mere formality. But the truth is, what you say in this conversation matters a lot more than you think. The good news is that you don’t have to navigate these conversations alone. At Alex Yadgarov & Associates, we can review your case and handle all your communications. We will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today and schedule your free consultation.
