The Truth About Recorded Statements

One of most unscrupulous tactics insurance companies use following an accident is taking the recorded statement of the personal injury victim. The insurance adjuster will assure the injured person that they’ll be taken care of and that they don’t need to retain an attorney. There is also the amazing attempt by the insurance carrier to quickly send a settlement check with a settlement release to the car, truck or motorcycle accident victim without thoroughly explaining that upon signing the settlement release, their ability to pursue the at-fault party is forever terminated. The fact that an adjuster is willing to tell the injured person they don’t need an attorney is every reason the person should immediately speak with a personal injury lawyer. There is absolutely nothing for the injured victim to gain by giving a recorded statement to an insurance company. Nothing. In fact, it is the strong policy of The Steven Dhillon Law Firm to never provide recorded statements to an insurance adjuster. Don’t let them fool you; the sole purpose of a recorded statement is for the insurance company to use it against you later on down the road by asking you unclear questions or causing you to say things you did not intend to say. The only time we allow for a recorded statement is if the insurance company is willing to waive their right to a deposition. They never do. As such, the claim is pursued and settled with our clients never giving a recorded statement. Why? Because recorded statements are completely unnecessary. Any details the insurance company needs about the accident will be provided by the personal injury attorney. There have been many times where an insurance adjuster attempts to quickly “settle” a personal injury claim with the victim by sending them a “settlement check” for a very low amount (e.g., $100) without informing the victim that this was sent in full settlement of their claim. The adjuster usually prints something like “settlement of injury claim” on the check and when the victim cashes the check, the adjuster claims the case has been resolved and refuses to offer any more compensation to the victim. Don’t let such an adjuster intimidate you or convince you that your claim has settled. It will be very hard, if not impossible, for them to prove to a court of law that a nominal check being cashed without a fully signed settlement and release being obtained was full settlement of your claim.