Whether you are dealing with a car accident, a slip and fall, or some other injury caused by a negligent party, eventually you are likely going to interact with an insurance company. In many cases, the adjuster you speak with may ask for a recorded statement to get all the details. Here’s why that’s a bad idea, and why you should seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney before speaking to the at-fault party’s insurer.
Why Insurance Adjusters Want Recorded Statements
Insurance companies spend heavily on advertising to make it seem like they will be there for you in times of need. While they have catchy jingles and fun commercials, keep in in mind that insurance carriers operate just like any other business. If they pay out more in claims than they bring in through premiums, they won’t make a profit.
While insurance can be a helpful resource, the adjuster you speak with has a vested interest in reducing your claim or denying it altogether. The purpose of a recorded statement is to get details on record that poke holes in your case. In particular, the adjuster is looking for you to admit partial fault or say something that may indicate your injury or property damage was pre-existing.
How an Attorney Helps
If the insurance company asks for a recorded statement, politely decline the request and talk to a lawyer instead. With the help of a Pennsylvania personal injury attorney who understands how insurance companies operate, you can avoid losing your right to compensation by:
- Providing a written statement with only the information necessary for the claim
- Avoiding extraneous details that can be used against you
- Reaching an agreement on medical release waivers to only provide history related to the accident
- Negotiating with the carrier for the largest possible settlement
Let a Professional Injury Attorney Work for You
Don’t let an insurance carrier deny your compensation after an accident. If you or a loved one were hurt due to negligence and have medical bills piling up while you can’t work, contact us for a free consultation to discuss how to best proceed with your claim.
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