If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Los Angeles, one of the first hurdles you’ll face is dealing with an insurance adjuster.
Whether it’s your own insurance company or the other driver’s, the adjuster’s role is to assess the situation and determine how much compensation you should receive.
But remember, their main priority is to save the insurance company money. Here are some tips on how to navigate these conversations effectively.
1. Be Mindful of What You Say
After the accident, an adjuster may call you within days asking for details about the crash. Be very careful in these conversations.
Stick to the basic facts—who was involved, when and where the accident happened—but avoid going into too much detail, especially about your injuries. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately.
You are not obligated to provide a recorded statement at this stage. In fact, it’s often better to wait until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
2. Don’t Rush to Settle
Insurance adjusters often offer quick settlements to resolve the case as cheaply as possible. This can be tempting, especially if you’re facing immediate medical bills or car repairs, but a fast settlement could shortchange you. Injuries may take time to fully manifest, and car repair estimates can rise. Settling too soon could leave you with uncovered expenses down the road.
Consult an attorney before agreeing to any settlement offers to ensure you’re not being undervalued.
3. Don’t Sign Anything Without Legal Advice
The insurance company may ask you to sign documents, such as medical authorizations or settlement agreements. Signing too early can limit your ability to pursue further compensation for ongoing medical treatment or unforeseen expenses. Before signing anything, consult with an experienced car accident attorney to ensure that your rights are protected.
4. Keep Detailed Records
Documentation is crucial when dealing with insurance companies. Keep track of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, car repairs, and time missed from work. Also, keep a log of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. The more detailed your records, the stronger your case will be when negotiating for fair compensation.
5. Understand California’s Comparative Fault Rule
California operates under a “pure comparative fault” rule, which means that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages.
However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. Insurance adjusters may try to pin more of the blame on you to reduce the payout. An experienced attorney can ensure that fault is properly assigned and that your compensation is not unfairly reduced.
6. Know Your Rights
You have the right to full and fair compensation for your injuries, medical bills, property damage, and lost wages. You do not have to accept the first offer, and you are not required to follow the adjuster’s recommendations. Having a lawyer in your corner can make sure you are treated fairly.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with insurance adjusters after a car accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it alone.
At our Los Angeles law firm, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the maximum compensation possible. If you’ve been in an accident, contact us for a free consultation today.