If you have recently filed an insurance claim after a car accident, you will soon be contacted by a claim adjuster. A claims adjuster will study your demand letter, understand the merits of your claims, examine supporting documentation, prepare their own reports, and decide on the amount of settlement money you will get. Unfortunately, a claim adjuster will offer a deal that works in favor of the insurance company they work for. But, you can ease your anxiety about dealing with this person when you have a Jupiter car accident attorney on your side. Also, here are some tips you need to keep in mind:
Be Prepared
Before you get a call from the claim adjuster, get all the paperwork, police reports, and other documents in place. Also, go over the facts of your accident and make sure you have answers to all the questions the adjuster may have for you.
Be Careful with the Words to Use
As a car accident victim, you may want to vent your anger at the person sitting across. However, you must control the urge and stay calm during your conversation with the adjuster. This way, you won’t end up mentioning something that works to the advantage of the insurance company during your outburst.
Figure Out a Settlement Amount
After evaluating the initial damage or file the paperwork, have an initial settlement amount in mind. Consider the damages that you think must be compensated for. You can use this as a bottom line in your conversation with the claim adjuster.
Don’t Accept the First Offer
Claims adjusters are trained negotiators. And because they do this for a living, they understand your psyche. In some instances, they may offer a decent settlement amount to test your claim’s validity. Sometimes, it may be a reasonable but low amount. Never accept the first amount they mention. Instead, discuss the offer and understand how they come up with the calculation.
Be There when the Adjuster Examines your Car
A claims adjuster will examine your vehicle to evaluate your claim. You should be there to answer all their questions truthfully and use this opportunity to present a rational reason why you must get a significant settlement.