When you get injured at your workplace, your workers’ compensation insurance can help you pay for your damages, such as medical bills and lost wages. For this, you need to work with the insurance adjuster, who adjusts the claims on behalf of the insurance company.
One fact you should know about insurance adjusters is that they are not your friend and do not have your best interests at heart. When they see you filing the claim without the assistance of a workers’ comp lawyer in Cedar Rapids, they may try to tell you lies. It is important to understand what these lies are to protect yourself.
Lies insurance adjusters tell injured workers
- “Your claim is still being investigated.”
The insurance company adjuster has the right to investigate your claim. However, it must be done within a reasonable amount of time. Adjusters will keep telling you that your claim is still being investigated in order to stall the process.
Fortunately, the law protects you from such tactics. The insurance company’s investigation cannot stop you from receiving the benefits you are entitled to. If they keep stalling the process, it is good to consult with an attorney in Cedar Rapids.
- “You have to give me a recorded statement.”
While it is not illegal for the insurance adjuster to ask for a recorded statement, you are under no obligation to agree. In fact, it is often suggested by attorneys that you do not give a recorded statement. Even if you choose your words wisely, the adjuster will twist them and use them to their advantage.
In most cases, you won’t even realize that you have been a victim of their dirty tactics. For example, replying “Good” to their casual question, “How are you doing?” could mean that you do not need medical care.
- “You must see the doctor that we have appointed.”
This is one of the most commonly used lies, surprisingly believed by many injured workers. In most cases, the insurance company is not concerned with how you are doing. They only want to conduct a drug test to see if they can put the blame on you and prevent you from getting compensation. The truth is, you are allowed to see the doctor of your choice as long as they meet the criteria given by the law.
- “We only offer fair settlements.”
This is a blatant lie. Insurance adjusters are not looking out for you but for their own company. The longer you do not get your money, the longer they get to keep it in their pockets. The adjuster may act as they care about your well-being and that the settlement they offer is the fairest you can get. However, that is rarely the case. Hiring an attorney can help you understand how much compensation you deserve.