Initial Personal Injury Claims Discussion
Once an accident victim has made it clear to the others involved that they plan to file an injury claim, it is likely that one or multiple insurance companies will contact the claimant by phone to discuss the facts of the case. You may still be sore or in a grumpy mood as you recover from your physical pain and mental anguish, but exercising a little common sense will prevent you from saying anything that could jeopardize your ongoing relationship with the claims adjusters. During these initial conversations, which will probably take place before a claim is filed, the claimant should keep the following things in mind:
- Stay calm and be considerate.
- Validate the call by asking the person you're talking with to provide their name, company they work for, and the name of the insured person whom they are calling on behalf of.
- Do not give out much personal information; your name, address, and phone number should suffice.
- Do not offer any facts regarding the accident or your injuries.
- Do not succumb to any persuasion to settle the claim right then and there.
- Put restrictions on the amount of future communication you're willing to accept from that insurance provider.
- Write down anything of significance that you hear during the phone call, including personal information you release as well as whatever is pertinent that you ask of the insurance representative.
Practicing appropriate etiquette by keeping the previous guidelines at the forefront of your mind will put the claimant in a position to receive the best settlement package that they deserve. A Florida personal injury lawyer can coach you through everything you will need to know to have a successful phone call.