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Following a slip and fall accident, insurance adjusters will try to settle your claim for as small a settlement as soon as possible. But when you receive a call from the insurance company after a slip and fall accident, you need to know what you should and should not say.
Regan Zambri Long explains how you can preserve the integrity of your slip and fall claim when the insurance company calls.
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The goal of the insurance companies following a slip and fall accident is to act quickly and lowball the victim on a settlement amount. They will likely call you very quickly as they want to try to close the case as soon as possible.
They will also work swiftly to find any information against you to try to shift blame to you to minimize the settlement amount.
But agreeing to the terms of an insurance adjuster or admitting even the most minor amount of fault can actually be detrimental to the outcome of your claim.
Here is what you should and should not say to the insurance company.
Though the insurance adjusters will be pushy, do not give a verbal statement or sign any documents the insurance company asks of you. This is because you may not be able to adequately assess your injuries and losses right away as many injuries are not immediately obvious.
When you give a statement or sign off on documentation, you have likely given up your right to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. Then, if you find out the compensation was not enough, you have no options left.
Instead, seek legal advice right away and let your slip and fall lawyer negotiate a settlement on your behalf. If needed, they can take your case to court.
A slip and fall accident is not always entirely the fault of the property owner. In fact, the victim may have a share in the accident occurring. However, depending on your state’s laws on fault, you still may be able to recover compensation.
But, if you make it seem as though you were at fault, even if that’s not what you intended to portray, the insurance company or legal team of the property owner will try to use that against you.
Though you are likely tired, overwhelmed, and ready to move, do not let your emotions get the best of you. Instead, remain polite and cooperative in your talks with the insurance company.
However, being polite doesn’t mean you have to divulge all information they ask of you. That means you do not have to discuss the specifics of the slip and fall case, nor do you have to discuss the extent of your injuries.
Even if it seems like friendly chit-chat, do not provide personal information aside from your name, address, telephone number, and place of employment.
Information like your income and family situation may impact the decision to give you a larger settlement or smaller if the insurance company feels as though you do not need the additional compensation.
While you may speak to multiple parties at the insurance company, make sure you keep a record of any and all adjusters you speak to. This includes name, position, and date and time of the call.
When you or a loved one are injured in a slip and fall accident, you may fear those long phone calls with the insurance company. Remember–you do not have to accept a settlement. Instead, call the slip and fall lawyers at Regan Zambri Long PLLC to negotiate your settlement.
For a free consultation explaining what to do when the insurance company calls, call (202) 960-4596 or fill out our confidential online contact form.
