Why You Should Not Give an Insurance Adjuster a Recorded Statement

After a vehicle accident caused by another driver, you can expect a call from an insurance adjuster who asks you for a recorded statement. These adjusters are trained to sound friendly, helpful, and “on your side,” and may tell you they are looking for some additional data regarding liability. You can put yourself at risk by allowing your statement to be recorded, as in many cases, the sole purpose of the call is to reduce the value of a settlement.

 

Why You Should Not Give an Insurance Adjuster a Recorded StatementAuto insurance companies are profit-focused, and every dollar your claim is reduced adds to the profit for shareholders. If you are asked to make a recorded statement, over the phone or in person, you need to ensure you do not say anything that could impact the value of your settlement. The adjuster will be attempting to see if you will change your story or admit to any fault. The strategies they use to reduce the value of an insurance claim could include:

  • Questions Geared to Reduce the Value of Your Claim: The recorded statement, when it proceeds, will involve a series of questions, carefully planned, to get you to admit to something you are unsure about or don’t know. Every error, uncertainty, or admission is likely to be used against you when negotiating your settlement and can lead to a denied claim.
  • When a Case Goes to Trial: If a settlement is not agreed on through negotiations, your personal injury lawyer can file a lawsuit. In court, a recorded statement can be played to reveal any inconsistencies in your verbal testimony in an effort to prove that what you say happened is in question, or that you lied.
  • Inconsistencies in Statements: After an injury accident, you may be interviewed by police, accident investigators or may have been deposed when a lawsuit was filed. Every statement you make, including your recorded statement, could be compared to identify any inconsistencies to attempt to prove you are dishonest to avoid paying you what you deserve.

Just Say “No” to a Recorded Statement

When an insurance adjuster calls you and asks for a recorded statement, just say no, and call your attorney. If you don’t yet have a personal injury lawyer, and your injuries are serious, it is time to ensure your right to the compensation you deserve is protected by a legal professional.

At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., we are committed to protecting the rights of the injured and seeking the maximum possible compensation after an auto accident or other incident in which an injury results from an act of negligence. If you or a loved one has sustained severe injuries, we will manage every aspect of your case, including guidance on the critical issues of recorded statements or in depositions.

An Insurance Adjuster is Not Your Friend.

After a serious injury accident, it can be a relief to talk about the incident, particularly to a person who sounds interested, caring, and supportive. Insurance adjusters are trained to extract information out of injured people that could reduce or deny an insurance claim – and this occurs far too often. Don’t take any risks with this situation but get the assistance of a personal injury lawyer with experience who will guide you with this critical part of the process.

Contact The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. for a free consultation at (719) 475-2555 today.