Four Assumptions You Shouldn't Make During Claim Negotiations

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Negotiating an injury settlement is both a learned skill and an art. This is why insurance adjuster seems so good in it; they have been doing this for a long time. However, you aren't doomed even if this is your first attempt at serious negations. With a little preparation, you can easily get what you deserve. The preparations start by not making any of these four assumptions:

Your Case Will Settle

Assuming that your case will settle is a mistake because you will be negotiating with a settlement at the back of your mind, which means you can easily accept a less-than satisfactory offer. Assuming that your case will settle may also make you lower your guard since the level of proof needed during the negotiations is lower than that needed for the trial. You need to know that the negotiation is just one of the two options available and that you can always resort to a lawsuit.

The Adjuster Is On Your Side

The other thing you shouldn't assume is that the adjuster is on your side; in fact, the opposite is true. The adjuster is working for the insurance company and needs to make minimize your payout as far as possible so that the insurer's bottom line doesn't suffer. Even if the adjuster claims that an offer is "fair" or that they understand your pain, be on your guard because they are moving in for the kill – which is to get you to accept a low offer.

You Have To Answer Every Question

You don't have to answer every question. Assuming that you must answer all the adjuster's questions may make you reveal things that may hurt your position or you may even begin to make up your answers. Tell the adjuster when you don't have an answer to a question, or you can promise to look it up and get back to them. This is also another way of showing the adjuster your honesty.

Something Is Nonnegotiable

Lastly, you shouldn't assume that any of the negotiating points are non-negotiable. This is because everything is negotiable, and if the adjuster refuses to negotiate a point that is dear to you, you can always resort to a lawsuit. All forms of damages such as pain and suffering, lost wages, and future medical needs, among others can be adjusted if there is a need. Even nonfinancial issues such as the issues on your release form or the wording of the apology from the defendant can be negotiated. 

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26 July 2017

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