Protect Your Slip and Fall Claim in Orlando, FL: Don’t Talk to Insurance! | Pardy & Rodriguez, P.A.

Video Summary

Following a slip and fall accident, individuals should be cautious about communicating with the insurance company representing the business or premises owner. An insurance adjuster represents the insurer’s interests rather than the injured person’s interests and may ask questions that could later affect the evaluation of a claim. The source recommends consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney before providing a statement to the opposing insurance company. Obtaining legal guidance first can help an injured person understand their rights, avoid potentially harmful statements, and better protect their claim during the insurance process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Should I provide a statement to an insurance company after a slip and fall accident in Florida?

It is generally advisable to consult with a qualified attorney before providing a statement to the property owner’s insurance company. Statements made early in the process may later be considered when evaluating the claim.

2. Is the insurance adjuster for the business owner on my side?

No. An adjuster representing the business or premises owner’s insurance company works for the insurer and is not acting as the injured person’s legal representative.

3. What is the primary role of the insurance adjuster after an accident?

The adjuster investigates and evaluates the insurance claim on behalf of the insurance company. This may include gathering information and statements that the insurer uses when determining whether and how much to pay.

4. Can providing a statement to an insurance company hurt my claim?

Yes. Statements can contain information, assumptions, or wording that an insurance company may later use when evaluating or challenging the claim. Consulting with an attorney beforehand can help you understand the potential risks.

5. When is the appropriate time to contact a personal injury attorney?

You should consider contacting a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after a slip and fall, particularly before providing a statement to the opposing insurance company.

6. Why is it recommended to seek legal advice before talking to an adjuster?

Legal advice can help you understand your rights, the claims process, and the types of information that may be relevant to your case before you communicate with an insurance adjuster.

7. Who does the insurance adjuster represent in a slip and fall case?

The adjuster represents the insurance company that provides coverage for the business or premises owner. The adjuster does not represent the injured visitor.

8. Should I treat the insurance adjuster as a helpful resource?

Although an adjuster may provide information about the claims process, their responsibility is to the insurance company. You should not assume that the adjuster is acting as an advocate for your interests.

9. What is the recommended first step for someone injured on another’s property?

After addressing any immediate medical needs and reporting the incident, consider speaking with a qualified personal injury attorney before providing a statement to the property owner’s insurance company.

10. Is it safe to communicate directly with the premises owner’s insurance adjuster?

Direct communication may carry risks because statements made to the opposing insurer can later be used when evaluating the claim. Consulting with an attorney before communicating with the adjuster can help protect your legal position.

Transcription of the Video

After your fall accident, you should not give a statement to the insurance company for the business or premises owner where you fell until you first speak to competent counsel. That adjuster is not on your side; they are not your friend. It is their job to make you potentially say things that could hurt your claim. Before you speak to any insurance adjuster for the other side after your fall accident, make sure you speak to a professional personal injury attorney.