The Auto Insurance Adjustor is Calling: What to say

Car accidents can happen in a matter of seconds and result in property and physical damage which may impact you for months, years, or even permanently. Once the collision is reported, automobile insurance companies begin to examine driver claims and investigate to determine liability and damage. Part of this process is someone called an insurance adjuster talking with each driver about the accident. Here is what you need to know about talking with the auto insurance company adjuster:

What is an Auto Insurance Adjuster?

An automobile insurance claims adjuster is an individual whose job it is to investigate a claim which is covered by an insurance policy. The adjuster usually performs this task by looking at the damage to vehicles, talking to witnesses, and examining any police report about the accident. After the investigation is completed the adjuster will make recommendations to the insurance company regarding liability. This individual may work for the insurance company or be an independent adjuster who is hired by the company to perform the review.

What to do When the Auto Adjuster Calls

• If you have been seriously injured in an automobile accident, you need first to get immediate treatment for your injuries and then contact a motor vehicle attorney right away. Your lawyer will know what to say and not to say to the insurance company and can be the adjuster’s initial point of contact. If your attorney advises you to talk with the adjuster, you will be able to do so with the benefit of their presence and counsel during the interview.

• If you are contacted by the other driver’s auto insurance adjuster before reaching an attorney, it is important to remember that this individual does not represent your interest. Their job is to save money for the automobile insurance company who holds the driver’s policy. Keep the conversation simple and limited. For instance, you can inform the adjuster where to locate your vehicle and confirm the identity of witnesses listed in the police report. However, it is not a good idea to admit any liability during this discussion. It would also be best if you also avoided stating whether you were hurt during the crash or going into detail regarding any known injuries.

Ideally, the insurance adjusters will be fair in their assessment of your accident. However, in many cases, the adjuster’s focus is on reducing insurance company costs and not that you getting the compensation you deserve.

At the Draper Law Firm, we have personal injury attorneys who understand the issues and laws involving motor vehicle accidents and can provide you with the advice you need regarding interacting with the insurance companies. Please contact us to schedule a free consultation. We invite you to learn more about our firm here.