Should You Have A Lawyer Present When You Meet With An ICBC Car Accident Adjuster?

If you have been in a car accident in BC, your first interactions post accident may be with the ICBC claims department. The interesting thing about car accident insurance in BC is that it is run by a monopoly. Although, you would think your adjuster is on your side, they are also on the side of the defendant, and trying to keep corporate expenses and claim payouts to a minimum.

ICBC adjusters have loads of experience with rules of the road; the motor vehicle act and BC court precedents. Shouldn’t you have the same advantage? It is your right to hire a lawyer, or consult with a personal injury lawyer before filing your car accident claim with ICBC. An experienced lawyer will review the accident details and provide you with solid strategic advice.

However, if you do decide to sit down for a bit of a chat with an ICBC adjuster here are a few tips to ensure you don’t jeopardize your claim for the compensation you deserve if you have been injured in a car accident because of the careless actions of others.

  1. Only answer questions with factual information such as date of accident, place of accident and time of accident – don’t speculate, estimate or assume about directions, speeds, or how the accident occurred.
  2. Don’t agree to record the interview.
  3. Don’t sign any paperwork or agree to anything.
  4. You are not obligated to give any past personal or medical or criminal history.
  5. You are not obligated to discuss any previous car accidents.

You owe it to yourself to call a car accident lawyer, and level the playing field. There are entire books written about how to manage car accident claims against ICBC, so know your rights and contact Klein Lawyers for free advice – we have years of experience to share with you.

For more information about this topic:

How a Lawyer’s Paid for Helping me with my ICBC Claim

How Much are Car Accident Lawyer Fees?

Top 10 Questions to Ask for a Car Accident Lawyer

Can you Still Get an ICBC Settlement for Minor Injuries?

Should I Provide The ICBC Adjuster a Medical Records Authorization?