Giving a statement
Many a claim or lawsuit is compromised by the maritime worker’s rendering a statement to a “concerned” adjuster or insurance company investigator. The adjuster or insurance company representative may explain to him that the statement of how the accident occurred, written or recorded, is necessary for the “processing of your claim” and that without such the settlement or maintenance checks would not be forthcoming.
The issues of who caused the accident or why the accident occurred are not required for obtaining maintenance and cure benefits. The statement is taken for one purpose and one purpose alone – to acquire any information which may later be used against you. The only requirement of you to necessary obtain medical payment is to assist in filling out an accident report for the company and to provide support that the injury occurred during the service on the vessel.
It is highly advised to never allow anyone, with the exception of your treating physician, secure your written or recorded statement. When discussing your claim with any investigator or adjuster over the phone, preface your discussion with a warning not to be recorded.