5 Statements Made by Claims Adjusters Handling Personal Injury Claims

When you are injured in an accident, dealing with the claims process can be overwhelming. Claims adjusters, the representatives working for insurance companies, play a critical role in determining how much compensation you will receive following an accident.

While their job is to settle claims efficiently, it is essential to remember that they work for the insurance company, not for you. This is why many people turn to personal injury attorneys to navigate these tricky situations. Experienced attorneys understand the system and know how to handle the carefully worded statements that adjusters often make.

5 Common Statements Claims Adjusters Make

Let us look at five common statements claims adjusters make and what they mean.

1. "We accept liability, but we need more information."

Hearing the words "we accept liability" might feel like a win, but do not get too comfortable. This statement creates a false sense of security and often comes with a catch. Accepting liability does not mean they agree to the amount you seek. Instead, they are preparing to investigate further to determine how much they will pay.

When they ask for "more information," they might be fishing for details that could reduce your claim's value. Be cautious about what you provide, and consult with a legal professional to ensure you do not unintentionally harm your case.

2. "We need you to give a recorded statement."

This one sounds innocent enough, right?

Wrong.

Adjusters are trained to ask questions in a way that leads to answers they can later use against you. They might ask about your injuries or the accident details in ways designed to downplay the severity of your situation.

It is important to note that you are not legally required to give a recorded statement without your attorney present. Letting your attorney handle communications is usually better to protect your interests.

3. "This is our final offer."

Hearing "final offer" can be intimidating. Many people think it is their last chance to settle, and they accept the amount out of fear.

But here is a little secret: that "final offer" is rarely final. It is often a tactic to pressure you into accepting less than you deserve.

Experienced personal injury attorneys know how to counter this strategy. They can push back, negotiate, and, if necessary, take the case to court to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

4. "You do not need an attorney to settle this."

If an adjuster tells you this, red flags should go up immediately.

Why would they say this?

Because they know an attorney would likely secure a higher settlement for you. The adjuster wants to keep the process as simple (and cheap) as possible for their company.

While you can technically handle a claim independently, having an attorney significantly increases your chances of getting fair compensation.

5. "We will cover your medical bills, but…"

This statement often has a "but" that undermines its initial promise. Maybe their offer only covers a portion of your bills or requires you to sign a release waiving your right to seek further compensation.

Medical expenses are just one piece of the puzzle. You might also be entitled to compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Do not settle for less than what you are owed.

Conclusion

It is worth noting that claims adjusters are not your allies. Their primary goal is to minimize payouts for the insurance company. While they might appear friendly and helpful, their job is to protect their employer's best interests. This is why working with personal injury attorneys is so important. Attorneys can cut through the insurance jargon, protect your rights, and advocate for the compensation you deserve.