Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is stressful enough without having to worry about what to say to an insurance adjuster. In Troy, Michigan, it’s common for insurance companies to reach out quickly after a collision takes place. However, no matter how helpful they may sound, it’s important to remember that their job is to protect the insurance company’s interests, not yours.
Knowing how to talk to adjusters can make a big difference in the outcome of your claim. If you’re unsure how to proceed, a knowledgeable Troy car accident lawyer from Khamo Law can help guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.
Here’s what you need to know to protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes.
The Role of the Insurance Adjuster
Insurance adjusters are trained to look for ways to reduce or deny claims. Even if the adjuster sounds polite or sympathetic, they work for the insurance company and are focused on limiting the payout. Their job is to gather information that could be used to downplay your injuries or shift blame.
Adjusters often ask for recorded statements or medical records early on. They may also offer you a fast settlement, hoping you’ll accept less than your case is worth. Before you agree to anything, speak with a car accident attorney in Troy who can advise you on how to respond.
What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Say
When the adjuster calls, you’re not required to answer all their questions. You can confirm basic details like your name, address, and the location of the crash. Beyond that, keep your responses short and don’t guess about anything. Even a small misstatement can be used against you.
Avoid saying things like:
- “I’m okay” or “I feel fine”: Your injuries might get worse later, and statements like this can weaken your claim.
- “I think…”: If you’re unsure about something, don’t speculate.
- “It was my fault”: Michigan is a no-fault state, but fault can still impact your recovery in some cases, especially if your injuries are serious.
It’s perfectly acceptable to say, “I’m not ready to give a statement right now,” or “I’d prefer to speak with my attorney first.”
Don’t Rush Into a Settlement
One of the biggest mistakes crash victims make is accepting a settlement offer too early. Adjusters may pressure you into closing the claim before you understand the full extent of your injuries or future medical needs. Once you accept, you can’t go back and ask for more.
In serious injury cases, your damages may include not just medical bills and lost wages, but also pain and suffering, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Always make sure your settlement reflects the full scope of your losses.
Let a Troy Car Accident Attorney Handle the Adjuster
Ideally, it’s best to let a Troy personal injury lawyer handle all of the communications with the insurance company on your behalf. This ensures that nothing is said or agreed to that could hurt your case.
A skilled car accident lawyer from Troy will also know how to negotiate with insurers and will understand the nuances of the state’s no-fault laws. Letting your attorney speak for you levels the playing field and gives you the best shot at a fair outcome.
Get Help From a Car Accident Lawyer in Troy Before Speaking With the Insurance Company
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, don’t feel like you have to face insurance adjusters on your own. A car accident lawyer in Troy can review your situation and guide you through the process, making sure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Our car accident attorneys offer free consultations and only get paid if we win compensation for your case. Contact Khamo Law at (248) 466-0606 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation today.