Many workers’ compensation cases in Florida are often determined by the responses to specific insurance deposition questions. Although the process can be stressful, it’s important that your answer is clever and well-thought-out so that your workers’ compensation claim sails through. Here are some tips:
Make sure you understand the questions
If you’re not sure what the insurance company is asking you, it’s okay to politely ask for clarification. For example, you could say, “I’m sorry, but could you please explain your question in more detail?” Then you can think about how to answer.
It’s dangerous to answer questions you don’t understand. You might give the wrong or unnecessary information that could work against you.
Always tell the truth
If you do get caught in a lie, the judge or workers’ compensation board members will likely rule against you, and your workers’ compensation claim could get denied altogether.
The court wants to know the honest facts about your workers’ comp case so that it can make a fair determination of how much money you should receive for your injury claim.
If you don’t remember the exact details of something, for instance, it’s okay to say that you don’t know for sure.
Don’t use absolute language
It’s important to speak in generalities. For example, you should say “I think” or “it seems like.”
You don’t want the court thinking that what you’re saying is definite when it isn’t. So, if someone asks a question about how your injury occurred and you really aren’t sure whether something happened a certain way, you might say, “I think it happened this way.”
Pause before you answer
This gives you some time to think of the most appropriate response, and it makes what you’re saying more thoughtful. If you just blurt out the first thing that comes into your head without thinking about it first, there’s no telling what you might say.
It’s important to be as accurate and truthful as possible during workers’ compensation insurance depositions to ensure that the court takes your workers’ comp claim seriously.
A deposition can significantly impact your workers’ compensation case, and small wording mistakes can be taken out of context by insurance carriers. Getting guidance before you testify can help you feel prepared and protect your benefits. The attorneys at Smith, Feddeler & Smith, P.A. have extensive workers’ comp experience and can help you navigate the process with confidence. Contact us today at (863) 355-5648 to discuss your case.
