To make sure you don’t say the wrong things when you speak with a workers’ compensation adjuster, consult a lawyer first. You have thirty days to report the workplace accident or injury to your employer. Reporting it sooner has some benefits. This allows you to link your job duties to your injuries.
If the insurer calls and requests that you give them a recorded statement, refuse outright. And if they continue to make such requests, tell them to talk to your Injured Workers Law Firm worker’s compensation lawyer about it.
Handing Conversations with an Adjuster
Even if the compensation adjuster does not request a recorded statement, they may take notes and add them to your file with the details of the claim you submitted. They will use this to determine whether the insurance company will pay your claim or not. During your talk with an adjuster, your financial well-being could be compromised if you are not careful. If you do not hire a lawyer, you must know what to say and what not to say when you speak to an adjuster.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
When you talk to a workers’ comp adjuster, make sure to stick only to the facts. Never elaborate on any issue unless you must do so. If the adjuster asks probing questions, do not answer them. Keep in mind the person you are talking to is waiting for you to say the wrong things that give them a reason to deny your claim.
In addition, ensure you are honest about your pre-existing condition. It is possible for the insurer to obtain such information elsewhere, do not lie about it. A pre-existing condition must not prevent you from securing workers’ comp; however, lying about it can give the adjuster a reason to think you may not be honest about other things.
What You Should Avoid Saying
When you talk to the adjuster’s call, limit what you say to them. The adjuster may try to get you to talk more, so they can get information that can be used against you or your claim. Never answer personal questions from them like information about your home life, finances, or family. Such questions are not relevant when it comes to workers’ comp investigations.
Moreover, make sure you do not sign any documents until you have had a lawyer review them. And when you get a settlement offer from the adjuster, do not accept it until you are sure you understand the full extent and cost of your work-related injuries.
