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How should I handle the insurance adjusters that contact me about my accident?

 

A: If you've been in an accident, it's best to use extreme caution when handling communication with the insurance adjusters that may contact you. 

Keep in mind that insurance adjusters are well versed in determining liability with accidents. If you were injured in an accident, the amount of damages you may receive from the other party can be significantly reduced by statements you innocently make to an insurance adjuster.

If you've been hurt in an accident and are filing an Illinois personal injury claim, the first thing you should do is look into hiring a Chicago personal injury lawyer. After you retain an attorney, you won't even need to worry about dealing with insurance adjusters, as your Chicago personal injury lawyer can handle those communications for you.

However, there may be times that you need to speak with an insurance adjuster before you retain legal counsel.

The following are some tips to help you with your Illinois personal injury case when you do have to interact with an insurance adjuster: 

• Don't participate in informal conversation. If the insurance adjuster tries to get you to relax or share more details regarding the accident or your personal life, only give the basic facts, such as the date and time, type of accident and the accident location.
• Be very general when discussing your injuries. In fact, if you are contacted very shortly after your initial accident, you can tell the adjuster that you are still undergoing medical treatment and are not yet aware of the full extent of your injuries.  
• Don't sign anything. Many insurance documents are written in cumbersome legalese, so it's best to consult with a Chicago personal injury lawyer before signing anything. These documents may have you waive your rights to seek further compensation or allow the insurance company access to your entire medical history and not just the records related to your accident.  

A lot of factors are taken into consideration when determining what damages you may recover in an Illinois personal injury claim. You don't want to jeopardize the damages to which you are entitled by falling for an insurance adjuster's tricks. They have been extensively trained to coax you into saying damaging remarks that will allow them to settle your claim for less than it may be worth.

Working with an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer can help prepare you for any conversations you have with an insurance adjuster. Your attorney can even handle these types of communications on your behalf. Either way, your Chicago personal injury lawyer can help make sure an insurance adjuster is not taking advantage of you during this difficult time.

When to Hire a Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer

The Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. have an experienced team of Chicago personal injury lawyers who can help you determine negligence, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and if necessary, take your Illinois personal injury claim to court. For a no-cost case evaluation, contact us today - 312-263-1080.

The Law Offices of
Barry G. Doyle, P.C.
5215 Old Orchard Road
Suite 710
Skokie, IL 60077
Phone: 312.263.1080
Fax: 312.263.0153

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