Dealing With Insurance Adjusters After an Accident

After a car accident or other personal injury, it doesn’t take long before the phone starts ringing — and it’s usually the insurance company on the other end. Whether it’s your insurer or the other party’s, you need to be extremely cautious about what you say and do.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we deal directly with insurance adjusters so our clients don’t have to — and we know the tactics they use to minimize payouts. Here’s how to protect yourself when dealing with insurance after an accident.

What Does an Insurance Adjuster Do?

An insurance adjuster’s job is to investigate claims and determine how much the insurance company should pay — if anything. Their loyalty is to the insurance company, not to you.

They are trained to:

• Collect statements
• Review police reports and medical records
• Assess vehicle damage or bodily injury
• Settle claims quickly and cheaply

Common Insurance Adjuster Tactics

⚠️ Requesting a recorded statement
They may ask for a recorded statement “just to get the facts.” What they’re really doing is fishing for inconsistencies they can use to deny or reduce your claim.

⚠️ Asking leading or tricky questions
Simple questions like “How are you feeling today?” can be used against you later.

⚠️ Offering a fast settlement
They might offer a check within days — before you’ve seen a doctor or hired an attorney. That offer is often far less than what your claim is worth.

⚠️ Blaming you for the accident
Even partial fault can reduce or eliminate your payout under Florida’s comparative fault law.

⚠️ Dragging out your claim
Delays are designed to wear you down and pressure you into settling for less.

What You Should Do Instead

✅ Consult an attorney before speaking to the insurance company
✅ Do not give a recorded statement without legal advice
✅ Keep conversations brief and factual if you must speak with them
✅ Don’t sign anything without having it reviewed
✅ Document everything, including pain, injuries, expenses, and conversations

Why Hiring a Lawyer Levels the Playing Field

Once you’re represented, the insurance company cannot contact you directly. Your attorney will:

• Handle all communications
• Gather the evidence to support your claim
• Accurately calculate your damages
• Negotiate aggressively
• Take your case to court if needed

Don’t Let the Insurance Company Control Your Case

Insurance companies are in the business of paying as little as possible. If you’ve been injured, get someone on your side who knows their tactics and how to fight back.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we handle the insurance companies so you can focus on healing. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.