Claims adjusters represent insurance companies, and it’s their job to minimize payouts. If someone is hurt in an accident, they may feel as if they can handle the claim alone. However, adjusters handle claims every day, while most people only do it once or twice in a lifetime. An adjuster will use his or her knowledge of the process to tempt victims into accepting settlements that aren’t in their best interest. However, Personal Injury Lawyers in Vermont level the playing field by representing victims’ interests. Below are several things insurance companies don’t want clients to know.
Giving a Recorded Statement Is Dangerous
Recorded statements are some of the most important parts of personal injury cases, as they give claims reps a distinct advantage. Victims have the right to decline to give a statement, and they also have a right to request a transcript of such conversations. Recorded statements often hurt victims’ cases, and in most instances, they give the insurer information to be used against victims in court. It’s not wise to give a state without first consulting an attorney.
Prior Claims Play a Role
When insurers ask questions about a victim’s prior injuries or accidents, they likely already have the answers. There’s an extensive database listing all claims a person has ever filed and the damage that resulted. When insurers ask these questions, they’re looking for the smallest inconsistencies and omissions they may use to discredit the claim.
Insurers May Request Surveillance
In some instances, claims reps may request surveillance of a victim’s activities. If the company sees any of the gathered information as being inconsistent with the victim’s reported injuries, they may deny or delay a claim.
Don’t Sign a Medical Release
If an insurer sends a medical release, they likely won’t tell the victim that it’s for all medical records, not just those related to the accident. Past injuries are one of the most effective ways to deny personal injury claims, and these releases allow adjusters to talk directly to a victim’s doctors. Personal Injury Lawyers in Vermont typically advise clients not to sign a medical release.
Claims representatives and insurance adjusters have years of training and experience on their side, and it’s important for victims to have someone on theirs. Call McVeigh Skiff LLP today to schedule a consultation or visit the firm’s website for more details.
