If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you’re going to need to inform your insurance company. Soon after that, expect to get a phone call from an insurance adjuster to discuss the details of the accident.
This interview with the adjuster is your chance to go on record about the events of the accident from your perspective. The interview is also beneficial for the insurance company, as it helps guard against fraud. Keep in mind this is not meant to be an interrogation—it’s just a fact finding process.
Here are some tips to help you feel prepared for this conversation.
- Just the facts: The interview will cover only the basic facts of the case. You can expect to be asked where the accident occurred, how it occurred, what you observed, what other vehicles were involved, if anyone else saw what happened, if you have witness contact information, what injuries occurred (and to whom), and other such important information. It can be a good idea for you to write all this information down in the immediate aftermath of your accident so it doesn’t slip your mind.
- Legality: You are not under any legal obligation to provide a recorded statement, so if you’d rather not be recorded you can say so.
- Accommodations: If you require any special accommodations for the interview due to disability or language barrier, let your adjuster know and they will be able to take care of it for you.
- Offer: After your interview, the adjuster will take all the information gathered to estimate the value of your claim, making you an offer. You are not obligated to accept this offer—you can work with an attorney to draft a reasonable counteroffer.
For more information about what to expect from your adjuster interview, contact an experienced Bradenton, FL auto accident lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez & Walsh.