After an accident, you may receive a quick call from an insurance adjuster asking for your side of the story. It might seem like a simple step toward resolving your claim, but yes, what you say can have a lasting impact and may hurt your case later. You likely would not even realize why your insurance statement could be used against you in your personal injury case.
Insurance companies often record these conversations and look for anything you said that they can use to reduce payouts. Before talking to an adjuster, speak with an experienced Palatine, IL personal injury lawyer. That is the first step in protecting your claim.
Can a Recorded Statement Be Used Against You in an Illinois Injury Case?
Insurance companies often claim that recording your statement helps them process your claim faster. In reality, they can use your own words to challenge your version of events. Under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule. According to this law, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault if you are found partly responsible for an accident. Even small comments like “I did not see the other car” or “I looked down for a second” can be used to suggest partial fault.