8 Tips for Handling Calls From Insurance Adjusters After a Commercial Truck Accident

Richmond Truck Accident Attorney Offers Insight Into How to Deal With Phone Calls From Insurance Companies

Commercial truck accidents on Virginia’s roadways frequently leave victims with serious injuries and expensive medical bills. As you try to focus on emotional and physical recovery, you may get inundated with phone calls from the insurance company representing the negligent party. Insurance adjusters may express a sense of urgency, but choosing your words carefully is important. Before speaking with insurers, consult our Virginia truck accident lawyers to protect your rightful claim to fair compensation.

The Reason Why the Insurance Company Is Calling You

It may seem obvious, but it’s worth stating all the same: insurance companies aren’t in the business of handing out money. To maximize profits, insurers always work to reduce or eliminate their liability to avoid paying claim settlements. If you were the victim of a Virginia truck accident and an insurance adjuster calls you, their primary motivation is to close the case as quickly as possible—for as little money as possible.

It’s in an insurer’s financial interest for you to accept a settlement for less than your claim is legitimately worth. To accomplish this goal, adjusters look for evidence they can use against you. If, during a recorded statement, it sounds as though you’re admitting fault—and even a sincere “I’m sorry” based on your concern for others might be perceived as such—your personal injury claim may be denied altogether. The persistent phone calls are meant to wear you down or to catch you off-guard. An accidental slip of the tongue can cost you thousands of dollars.

8 Tips for Handling Calls From Insurance Adjusters

When you get a call from the insurance company representing the truck operator, the fleet company, or some other responsible party, sending the call to voicemail is perfectly acceptable. Then, listen to the message and let your legal counsel follow up on your behalf.

If you decide to pick up the call, keep these key tips in mind while navigating that conversation.

1. Get Their Contact and Claim Information

Take note of the specific insurance adjuster calling you about your claim. Get their name and direct phone number, as well as your claim number. Write down the date and time of the call for your records. Pass all of this information along to your personal injury lawyer.

2. Speak Respectfully and Keep Emotions in Check

It’s only natural that emotions might get the best of you, but it’s in your best interest to remain cool. Be polite with the insurance adjuster and speak in a respectful tone. They may try to disarm you with feigned kindness, but don’t be fooled. While you shouldn’t get angry or upset on the phone, you shouldn’t let down your guard either.

3. Contact Your Truck Accident Lawyer

Take the time to ask your truck accident attorney any questions you have. Then, when an adjuster approaches you, make it clear that you hired a lawyer to represent your case. Stand firm. The adjuster may pressure you to answer their questions right away, but tell them you’ll call them back after discussing the matter with your counsel.

4. Stick Only to the Basics

The first phone call from the insurance company may go under the guise of confirming basic information. You may provide them with your name, phone number, and vehicle description. If an adjuster starts to ask more detailed questions, like asking you to describe how the truck accident happened or the extent of your injuries, tell them your attorney will follow up with them regarding details.

5. Avoid Discussing Fault

Your words can be misconstrued and used against you. Never say anything that could be misinterpreted as admitting fault for an accident. This includes seemingly benign statements like, “I didn’t see the truck coming.” Avoid discussing any details like speed or road signs, too. The insurance company may use these statements as evidence to reduce or deny your claim.

6. Decline Making a Recorded Statement

One of the most common myths about truck accident cases is that insurance always covers your damages. This isn’t true. To protect your rights, don’t agree to a recorded statement that’s later transcribed into a written document. Having a lawyer present who can speak on your behalf is much better.

7. Refuse to Sign a Medical Release Form

Be wary of signing a medical release form after a Virginia truck accident. The insurance company can gain access to your entire medical history. Then, they might use pre-existing conditions, for instance, to downplay or deny your personal injury claim.

8. Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer

Car and truck accident victims commonly make the mistake of jumping on a quick settlement. They want to put the case behind them as soon as they can. This is an error, as the first offer will typically be much less than the full compensation you deserve. Let your legal team estimate the value of your claim and negotiate for a fair settlement.

We Provide Skilled Legal Representation in Virginia Truck Accidents

Hiring an experienced Richmond truck accident lawyer is a vital step you can take to protect your rights after a traumatic collision. Our seasoned legal team at The Mottley Law Firm will passionately defend your right to maximum compensation if you or a loved one is hurt.

We represent your best interests when speaking with insurance companies on your behalf. Carefully investigating your claim, we work tirelessly to overcome common defenses in truck accident cases like yours. Let us build a strong case and handle all communications so you can focus on your recovery.