If you have been involved in a car accident in Rhode Island, you will most likely have to deal with a claims adjuster soon after. This can be intimidating, especially if you are not familiar with your auto insurance policy and the coverage. Insurance adjusters are the representatives and employees of the insurance company, who will determine the amount of compensation you receive or whether or not you will be compensated at all for your injuries, damages and losses after a car accident.
Be Wary of Insurance Adjusters
Although insurance adjusters will act like they are looking out for your best interest, this is not the case. The insurance company pays the insurance adjuster. In fact, it would be in the adjuster’s agenda to avoid payouts or keep them as low as possible. The insurance adjuster has the job of interviewing you and other parties. What you tell the adjuster can make or break your claim. The statements you make during these interviews can, and often, will be used against you, and to the insurance company’s advantage.
For example, if you admit fault to the adjuster, it may hinder your recovery of damages under the insurance policy. What you need to understand very clearly as a claimant is this: The insurance adjuster is not your friend. He works for the insurance company that in most cases tries to make sure that you get paid nothing or as little as possible so they can save money and boost profits.
Tips to Deal Effectively with Adjusters
As Rhode Island car accident attorneys who represent injured victims and their families, we routinely deal with insurance companies who try to play hardball with our clients. We know how to help our clients get what they deserve. Here are a few tips to deal with a claims adjuster after a car accident to ensure you get the settlement you rightfully deserve:
- Be clear, concise, honest and consistent with your answers. Be patient when you answer the adjuster’s questions. If you inadvertently admit fault, you may not be able to receive any compensation.
- Present evidence of your claims such as a police report to help determine liability. It is critical that you collect and preserve key evidence for your own records such as photographs from the accident site, medical bills, hospital records, contact information for eyewitnesses, etc.
- Never be eager to accept the first settlement offer your adjuster presents. Do not be afraid to question the offer. Don’t tolerate intimidation. If you don’t understand the terms of the settlement or believe they are inadequate, challenge the adjuster. If you rush into a settlement, your case may be considered closed and you won’t be able to seek further compensation.
If the claims adjuster continues to low-ball you and become difficult to talk to, seek the assistance of an experienced Rhode Island car accident lawyer who has a successful track record dealing with insurance companies. A skilled lawyer will help you get the settlement you deserve so you can recover from your injuries and return to normalcy.
To schedule a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation, please call us toll free at 1-800-992-6878.
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
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