What to do if an independent adjuster reaches out after a trucking accident

Following an accident involving commercial trucks, some insurance companies send insurance adjusters to reach out to the victims. Typically, the adjuster will claim that they are there to check on you, investigate the accident and handle the situation in a way that is fair to you. Although these adjusters are independent, they are usually hired by the insurance companies, and most likely, they will be looking out for the insurer’s interests.

Therefore, it is essential to know how to handle them if they try to contact you after an accident. It might make all the difference in your case.

Do not admit fault. Even though you think you had partly or wholly contributed to the accident, do not admit it. Your admission of guilt may negatively affect settlement negotiations with the insurance company of the trucker or trucking company.

Do not provide written statements. Any information you give to these adjusters may come back to haunt you. Moreover, written statements may even be more damaging to your case since they may be presented as evidence in court should things go that far.

Do not give details of the accident or your injuries. It is important not to discuss any vital aspects of your accident, even your injuries. You are not legally obligated to divulge information to these adjusters, so do not think you are doing anything wrong by withholding it.

Do not rush into a settlement. Usually, insurance adjusters will coax you into a settlement. Quick settlements without a full review of the extent of your injuries will save the insurance company money, which is what the adjusters are after anyway. Your compensation should be adequate to cover for all the damages that the truck accident caused you, including any emotional or mental anguish.

Safeguard your rights

You have a right to be fully compensated for your injuries following a truck accident. As such, you should be at the forefront in protecting those rights by taking the proper steps following your crash.