If you’ve been in a truck crash, you know how stressful and overwhelming it can be. In the days and weeks after the accident, you will likely be contacted by insurance adjusters from both your own insurance company and the truck driver’s insurance company. It’s important that you contact a Phoenix truck accident attorney as soon as possible to help you with your claim.
The Risks of Speaking to an Insurance Adjuster After a Truck Crash
Being involved in a truck crash is a harrowing experience. Not only are you dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of the accident, but you’re also faced with the daunting task of dealing with insurance companies. While it’s natural to want to get the claims process over and done with as quickly as possible, you should avoid speaking to an insurance adjuster right after a truck crash. Here’s why.
You’re Still in Shock
It’s not uncommon for people to be in shock after a traumatic event like a truck crash. And while you might think you’re calm, cool, and collected, the reality is that you’re likely still reeling from what happened. As such, it’s best to avoid making any major decisions or giving any sort of statement until you’ve had time to process what happened and fully understand the situation.
Insurance Adjusters are Trained to Minimize Your Settlement
As soon as you speak to an insurance adjuster, they will start asking you questions about the accident. It’s important to remember that anything you say can and will be used against you later. The insurance adjuster may take your statements out of context and use them to argue that you are partially or fully at fault for the accident. They may even try to trick you into admitting fault by asking leading questions. Adjusters are trained professionals, and they’re very good at what they do.
You Don’t Need to Give a Recorded Statement
One of the first things an insurance adjuster will ask for is a recorded statement. They may tell you that it’s just a formality or that it’s standard procedure, but you are not required to give a recorded statement, and in fact, it’s in your best interest not to do so. Once again, anything you say can and will be used against you, so it’s best to avoid giving a recorded statement altogether.
You Will Likely Be Offered Substantially Less Than You Deserve
After the insurance adjuster has gathered all the information they need, they will make you a settlement offer. This offer will almost certainly be lower than what your case is actually worth. The reason for this is simple: the insurance company wants to make money, not pay out claims. If you accept their initial offer, you could end up being stuck with tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills and other expenses related to the accident. You should always speak with a personal injury lawyer in Phoenix first.
If you’ve been in a truck crash, it’s important to be careful about speaking to insurance adjusters from either your own company or the truck driver’s company. These individuals are trained professionals whose sole purpose is to save their company money—not get you the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been involved in a truck accident and you need help, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.