At some point soon after you’ve contacted your insurance company to tell them you’ve been involved in an accident, you can expect to hear from your insurance adjuster, who investigates your claim and offers you a settlement. They will conduct an interview with you over the phone about the accident and everything you can remember about the circumstances surrounding it.
It’s understandable to be a bit intimidated by this prospect, but remember that you’re not being interrogated—this is just a process designed to gather facts to help the adjuster.
Still, it is important to prepare for the interview and to know what to expect. Here’s a quick overview.
What to expect from your adjuster interview
Most interviews will take place over the phone, but an in-person interview isn’t out of the question if your adjuster has an office near you. The adjuster will likely ask for your permission to record the interview. You do not have any obligation to give a recorded statement—if you do not wish to be recorded, say so. You are also allowed accommodations for hearing difficulties, or language barriers.
Topics of conversation might include the location of the accident, the direction you were traveling, how the accident happened, the involvement of other vehicles, the presence of witnesses, the nature and extent of injuries and property damage, police officers and medical responders who came to the scene, and anything else you observed.
You should focus on being as honest as possible with your answers, without editorializing. If you do not remember or do not know, be truthful and say so. It’s better to be completely upfront and honest rather than try to make something up that you think might benefit your case.
After the interview, your adjuster will use the provided information to estimate the value of your claim, and make you an offer. You can then accept the offer or negotiate further.
For more information about the interview process with an insurance adjuster, contact an experienced Bradenton, FL auto accident lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez & Walsh.