After a work injury, insurance adjusters often move quickly to request a recorded statement. For injured Iowans, especially those navigating a workers’ compensation claim in Waterloo, Jesup, Independence, or surrounding Northeast Iowa communities, this process can feel intimidating. One rule is critical: never guess. Even small uncertainties can harm your workers’ compensation case and give the insurance company ammunition to dispute your benefits.
Why Recorded Statements Matter
Insurance companies use recorded statements to evaluate the details of your work injury. As Waterloo workers’ compensation lawyers, we regularly see insurers attempt to use unclear or guessed answers to reduce or deny claims. Everything you say becomes part of the official record, so accuracy is essential.
Never Guess About How the Injury Happened
If you do not remember every detail, that is okay—just do not guess. Whether you were injured in a factory, on a construction site, or while performing daily job tasks, simply state what you know. Guessing about times, movements, or the order of events can lead the insurer to question your credibility, something we often see in Iowa workers’ compensation cases.
Never Guess About Your Medical Condition
You are not expected to diagnose yourself. As Waterloo work injury attorneys, we advise clients to stick to what their doctors have told them and how they physically feel. Insurance companies frequently use guessed medical explanations to minimize injuries or challenge the severity of a claim.
Never Guess About Previous Injuries
Adjusters often ask about old injuries to argue that your current condition is not work related. If you are unsure whether a prior issue matters, avoid guessing. This is a common tactic we see in Iowa workers’ compensation and personal injury claims, where insurers attempt to shift blame to a past incident.
Never Guess About Work Restrictions or Ability to Return to Work
Only your doctor—not the insurance company—can determine your work restrictions. Guessing about what you can or cannot do can be used to argue that you are capable of more than is safe. This is especially important for injured workers in Waterloo, Jesup, and Independence who may feel pressured to return to work too soon.
You Have the Right to Legal Guidance First
In Iowa, you are not required to provide a recorded statement before speaking with an attorney. A Waterloo workers’ compensation attorney or Iowa work injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and ensure the insurance company does not take advantage of your uncertainty. Having representation often prevents common mistakes that can harm a claim.
If you have been asked to give a recorded statement after a work injury, our team at Pieters & Pieters Attorneys is here to help. As experienced Waterloo workers’ compensation lawyers serving Northeast Iowa, we guide injured workers through each step of the process. Visit our website at https://www.pieterslawoffices.com or call us at (319) 234-3542 to speak with our team.
