Insurance Adjusters and Personal Injury Cases – Be Prepared To Protect Your Interests

After a vehicle accident, you usually find yourself working with an insurance adjuster. For most people, this is foreign territory. You likely go in without fully understanding what is happening or how you can most fully protect your rights. Take the time to understand the insurance adjuster’s role so you can go in prepared.

What Is an Insurance Adjuster?

An insurance adjuster works for or on behalf of the insurance company that will be paying on your claim. This person’s job is to get all the facts of the accident, assess the costs and damages, and settle the claim. He or she will take the position of wanting to make sure you are covered for all of your costs and reach a fair settlement, but you should always remember that the adjuster’s goal is to reach the best deal for the insurance company.

How Does the Claims Process Work?

You kick off the claims process by filing a claim. Sometimes this includes a demand for a specific amount of money, in which case you need to include all of your losses: vehicle damage, medical expenses, loss of income, and any other financial losses you incur. Other times the claim is presented to the adjuster and he or she makes an offer. In either case, remember that the adjuster’s offer is only that; you can counter with a higher number, and then negotiate until you reach common ground. But once you agree, your settlement will preclude you from suing for additional damages.

What Are Your Rights?

The adjuster is not on your side. He or she is working for a result in the insurance company’s best interests. You have the right to look out for your best interests. Because adjusters have experience and knowledge far beyond yours, you should plan to ask questions, and have the right to hire an attorney to help you. Before you sign away your right to recover for all your losses, contact Eisenberg Law Offices. We are the tough, experienced negotiating partner you need to help get the recovery you deserve after an accident.