When an Illinois worker gets hurt on the job, it is common for an insurance adjuster to reach out quickly. The adjuster may sound friendly and concerned, but it is important to understand who they work for. Insurance companies are businesses focused on their bottom line. Their goal is to limit how much they pay on claims, and they are often looking for reasons to deny or reduce benefits. They are not there to protect your interests.
What you say to an insurance adjuster can have a big impact on your case. It is important to be polite, but also careful. You do not have to talk to them and often shouldn’t. If you do, you should stick to basic facts about your injury. This includes when and where the accident happened and the body parts that were injured. If you have already seen a doctor, you can confirm that as well. Keep your answers short and accurate. If you do not know the answer to a question or are unsure, it is okay to say that you do not know or that you need to check your records.
At the same time, there are things you should avoid saying. Do not guess or speculate about what caused the accident. Do not downplay your injuries by saying things like, “I’m fine,” or “it’s not that bad,” especially early on. Many work injuries get worse over time, and those statements can later be used against you. You should also avoid giving recorded statements. Adjusters are trained to ask questions in a way that may lead you to give answers that hurt your claim, even if that is not your intention. They are well known for twisting words or misinterpreting them.
It is also important not to discuss unrelated medical history or prior injuries. While some prior conditions may be relevant, insurance companies sometimes try to blame your current injury on a pre-existing issue in order to deny benefits. Treatment not related to your injury is none of their business. It is why we recommend to never sign a broad release form for your medical records. Also avoid talking about your activities outside of work or posting about your injury on social media, because this information can be taken out of context.
One of the most common mistakes injured workers make is assuming the adjuster is there to help them through the process. In reality, the adjuster’s job is to protect the insurance company. That is why having a lawyer on your side who understands how the system works can make a big difference.
An experienced Illinois workers’ compensation attorney can guide you on exactly how to handle communications with the insurance company. A lawyer can speak to the adjuster on your behalf, help you avoid common pitfalls, and make sure your rights are protected. They can also ensure that your injury is properly documented, that you receive the medical care you need, and that you are paid all the benefits you are entitled to under the law.
If you have been injured at work, you do not have to deal with the insurance company on your own. We can connect you with a reputable Illinois workers’ compensation attorney who has a strong track record. We have a state wide network of experienced, top work injury attorneys. There is no cost to speak with a lawyer, and you will not pay any fees unless there is a recovery in your case. Contact us today through our contact form or by calling 312-346-5578.
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