Car accidents are a sobering reality for millions of motorists around the world every year. Thankfully, accident settlement claims can greatly assist in relieving the financial hardships brought about by many accidents. One of the most important steps in getting a successful settlement claim is knowing how to properly interact with an insurance adjuster. Insurance adjusters are responsible for assessing vehicle damage and determining an appropriate financial settlement to give the motorist. It is vital to keep several different things in mind before speaking with an insurance adjuster to get the best deal possible.
Insurance Adjusters Work for the Insurance Company
Although insurance adjusters may be helpful and are responsible for determining the amount of financial assistance provided to motorists, it is important to remember that they ultimately work for the insurance company. Their goal is to save the insurance company as much money as possible, not necessarily provide the motorist with the best settlement deal possible. The genesis of a successful negotiation with an insurance adjuster outflows from being aware of this fact, and will mentally prepare the motorist to avoid saying things that may hinder their claim.
Be Polite, Firm, and Factual
Individuals must prepare to be polite, firm, and factual, doing their best to avoid the use of strong emotions which will hinder the settlement process. Emotions tend to prevent individuals from thinking clearly, and will exponentially increase the likelihood of saying something foolish which could prevent them from getting an adequate settlement. If a motorist was injured in the accident, they should never convey that they are doing fine or feeling better. They should instead stick to the facts and state that they are currently under the care of a physician.
Speak With An Attorney
Speaking with an attorney before you contact the adjuster is a must. This will ensure that things are on a level playing field and you cannot be taken advantage of. Attorneys do this professionally so allowing them to handle the situation for you is in your best interest. If you handle this without the expert advice of an attorney, situations may arise that will have a detrimental effect on your settlement.
Keep Careful Documentation
Because not all insurance companies may provide an adequate settlement, motorists should keep careful records of every interaction with the insurance company in case they eventually need to go to court. Items such as e-mails, letters, and notices from the insurance companies should be saved and copied, specific dates and times should be recorded for every meeting with the insurance adjuster, and all accident-related information should be saved. Individuals should also always take comprehensive notes during all meetings with the insurance adjuster.
Mediator vs. Court
If a motorist and an insurance company are having serious difficulties reaching an equitable agreement, outside help may be necessary. The nature of the settlement claim itself will usually determine what type of outside help is needed. Mediators are much more inexpensive and will allow a motorist to receive their settlement compensation sooner. Most insurance companies will be happy to utilize a mediator, even if the mediator may not implement a settlement that they like, because going to court is a very costly process. Most accident claim cases that go to court only do so because a huge financial settlement is at stake, and both parties are so far apart regarding compensation that there is no hope of mediation.