After the shock of a car accident, the phone calls start. One of the first will likely be from an insurance adjuster from the other driver’s company. They may sound friendly and concerned, but it is crucial to remember one thing: the insurance adjuster is not your friend. Their job is to protect the insurance company’s bottom line by paying you as little as possible.
Navigating a conversation with a trained insurance adjuster is a minefield for an unsuspecting accident victim. Saying the wrong thing can seriously jeopardize your claim. The experienced Wisconsin car accident lawyers at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler are here to help you understand the adjuster’s tactics and protect your rights.
The Insurance Adjuster’s Goal
Insurance companies are for-profit businesses. Their goal is to minimize payouts on claims. Adjusters are trained negotiators who use a variety of tactics to achieve this goal, such as:
- Requesting a Recorded Statement: They will ask to record your statement, hoping you will say something that can be used against you later, such as downplaying your injuries or admitting partial fault.
- Offering a Quick, Lowball Settlement: They may offer you a quick check, often before the full extent of your injuries is even known. This offer will be far less than what your claim is actually worth, but they hope you are desperate enough to take it.
- Disputing Your Medical Treatment: They may question the necessity of your medical care or argue that your injuries were pre-existing.
- Delaying Your Claim: They may drag their feet, hoping that you will become frustrated and give up or accept a low offer.
What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Do
When an adjuster calls, it is important to be prepared. Here are some key dos and don’ts:
- DO provide your basic contact information.
- DON’T give a recorded statement. You are not legally required to do so. Politely decline and tell them your attorney will be in touch.
- DON’T discuss the details of the accident or your injuries. Even saying “I’m fine” can be used against you.
- DON’T sign any documents or accept any settlement offers without first speaking to a lawyer.
- DO contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
How a Lawyer Can Level the Playing Field
Hiring a personal injury lawyer is the single most important step you can take to protect yourself from the insurance company. Once you have an attorney, the adjuster is no longer allowed to contact you directly. Your lawyer will handle all communications and negotiations.
Here’s how we can help:
- We Handle All Communications: We take over all calls, emails, and paperwork from the insurance company, so you can focus on your recovery.
- We Build Your Case: We will conduct a thorough investigation, gather your medical records, and build a strong case to prove the full value of your claim.
- We Negotiate for You: We are skilled negotiators who know the adjuster’s tactics. We will fight for a full and fair settlement that covers all of your damages.
- We Go to Trial if Necessary: If the insurance company refuses to be fair, we are always prepared to take your case to court.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Do I have to talk to the other driver’s insurance company?
A: You are not legally obligated to provide a statement to the other driver’s insurance company. It is in your best interest to decline and have your attorney handle all communications.
Q: The adjuster seems so nice. Are they really trying to trick me?
A: While some adjusters may be pleasant, their job is to save the company money. They are trained to build rapport to get you to say things that will hurt your claim. It is never wise to trust them.
Q: When should I contact a lawyer?
A: You should contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident, and definitely before you give any statements or sign any documents from an insurance company.
Don’t Be a Victim Twice. Contact Us Today.
You’ve already been the victim of a negligent driver. Don’t become a victim of their insurance company. The dedicated attorneys at Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler are here to protect you. Visit our homepage to learn more, and then contact us or call 608-784-4370 for a free consultation.