For those hurt by another driver's carelessness, you may be getting a few phone calls from the insurance company sooner or later. These calls and how well you deal with them can mean more to your case than you might have thought, and it pays to be prepared ahead of time. Read on to learn more about the reason for the calls and how you can play it safe and not harm your chances for compensation.

More than one adjuster on the line

Once you get a call, be sure you understand exactly who is on the line. You could be getting a call from your own insurance adjuster or the one for the other driver and the way you treat the call will be different for each. No matter which side is calling, you would be much better off if you ask the caller to call back on a different day so that you can be better prepared for the call. Be sure that you have recovered from your injuries enough before you agree to speak to anyone about any legal matters.

When your insurance adjuster is on the line

Assemble your paperwork and read over everything before you agree to the call. In most cases, you have no choice but to speak with your adjuster, but you should still take care with what you say during the call. To answer the adjuster's questions (the call will be recorded) in an accurate manner, have the following on hand:

• Your policy papers
• Accident report
• Medical bills, so far
• Photos of the wreck and damage estimates
• Short narrative of how the wreck happened

When the other side's insurance adjuster in on the line

Money is the carrot or the stick when an adjuster for the other driver calls, and the call may be in conjunction with the offer of a settlement check. While money can be a powerful motivator, you should think twice before you speak to the other side. These insurance adjusters are well-trained in techniques that might have you saying things that unintentionally damage your case.

Seek help no matter who is on the line

Only a personal injury attorney who is on your side knows how much money you are entitled to get as a result of your accident and injuries. Before you make a move and speak to an adjuster or accept an inadequate settlement, speak to an attorney and have your case evaluated.

For more information, reach out to a firm like the Law Offices of Michael Dye.