- Car Accidents
Some accident victims do not even have the time to look for a Jonesboro car wreck lawyer when they get a visit from an insurance adjuster. This is a common tactic because you are still vulnerable and in pain after the crash. So, the adjuster tries to get you to give a recorded statement.
The main purpose of this statement is to trick you into admitting fault or contradicting yourself. Later on, it will be used as evidence against you when an attorney tries to negotiate a fair settlement.
Here is what you should do when you are asked to give a recorded statement. At Wade Law, we have a combined legal experience of over 70 years. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.
Try to Avoid or Delay Any Recorded Statement
You aren’t legally required to give the other driver’s insurance company a recorded statement in Georgia. You may have to give a statement to your insurance company if asked. You should talk to a car accident lawyer before agreeing to give a statement.
If the adjuster says that you cannot open a claim without this first step, you can explain that it is too soon after the accident. This has a better chance of success if you’re still recovering from injuries.
Do Not Admit Fault in Any Way
You would be surprised how skillfully an insurance adjuster can twist and interpret your words, or take them out of context. For this reason, avoid saying any words that imply remorse, fault, or any admission of responsibility.
For instance, do not say “I’m sorry” in any context. You don’t know how the adjuster will rearrange the statements you made to make it appear you were apologizing for the accident.
Only Answer the Adjuster’s Questions
Do not volunteer any kind of information out of the scope of the adjuster’s questions. Give clear, simple, and short answers. Be aware that the adjuster will try to appear friendly and chat with you.
This is the moment when you may let your guard down and start making self-incriminatory and contradicting statements. Make no mistake: the insurance adjuster is not your friend. Only a Jonesboro car accident attorney has your best interests at heart.
Do Not Guess – Say Only What You Know for Sure
Everyone has a good guess about what happened in various circumstances. But guesses are not allowed in a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster. You may be wrong. And once one mistake comes to light, the adjuster will try to say that all your statements are a lie.
They will cast doubt on your version of how the accident happened, the severity of your injuries, and the value of your damages. This will make it harder for your attorney to reach a fair settlement and will prolong the negotiations.
Ask for Clarification If You Don’t Understand a Question
If you are not sure what the adjuster wants to know, ask them to reformulate the question. Asking long and complex questions is yet another tactic to confuse you and make you contradict yourself.
You have a very good excuse that you are still in pain and taking various medications. Thus, the adjuster should make their questions simpler and easier to understand. Do not let them intimidate you in any way. Aggressive behavior is illegal and gives you the right to report the adjuster.
Let a Jonesboro Car Wreck Lawyer Negotiate Your Accident Claim!
Whether you managed to avoid giving a statement or not, the next thing to do is to talk to an experienced attorney. At Wade Law, we have a combined legal experience of over 70 years. We know how to negotiate with adjusters and when to threaten with a lawsuit if we cannot obtain the fair settlement you deserve.
Do not waste valuable time! Call us now at 770-282-1188 to schedule a free case review with an experienced Jonesboro car wreck lawyer!
