The first time you’re in a car accident, you will likely have many questions. If you are hurt, you need to know who will provide compensation for your medical bills. If your automobile is totaled or damaged, it’s important to know who is responsible for repairing or replacing your car.
Chances are you also have questions about what your insurance will cover and how claims adjusters will evaluate the damage. You may also be wondering if your insurance rates will go up after the accident.
Even though you may be confused and aren’t sure what to do, there are a few important things you should avoid asking the insurance company. Keep in mind that anything you say when you contact an insurer could be used to lower your settlement amount.
Here is what not to tell an insurance agent after a car wreck.
Wait to Make a Statement
You’ll likely be in shock immediately after a car accident. This is not the time to give a statement to the insurance company. Wait until you’ve calmed down and can clearly describe the details of the accident. It’s also a good idea to wait until you have an official accident report from the police. This way you can read from an official document to answer most of the insurer’s questions.
Don’t Say the Accident Was Your Fault
Simply state what happened in the car accident. Don’t admit fault or give your opinion of who you think was at fault. If you indicate that you may be liable, the insurance company will work even harder not to provide an insurance settlement.
Don’t Say You’re Not Hurt
If the claims agent asks you if you were injured in the accident, don’t say no. You may not feel some injuries right away. If you say you weren’t injured, the insurance company will use this as a reason not to provide you with a fair settlement.
Don’t Provide an Official or Recorded Statement
Never give an insurance agent an official statement about the accident unless your lawyer has advised you to do so. Any statements you provide will be recorded and may be used as evidence that you don’t “deserve” fair compensation.
Don’t Accept an Offer Without Speaking to Your Attorney
The insurance company of the driver who was at fault will initially attempt to give you a low settlement offer. The likelihood of this is much higher if you are not represented by an attorney. Make sure your lawyer reviews the offer first and confirms that it is reasonable based on the circumstances of the accident before you accept it.
Don’t Deviate From the Facts
If a claims adjuster or insurance agent asks you a question and you’re not sure about the answer, simply say you’ll consult with your lawyer and get back to them. Don’t offer your opinion about what happened in the accident or try to estimate any facts or figures.
Don’t Release Your Medical Records
Never sign a release allowing the insurance company to access your medical records. Insurers use this evidence to prove that you may have had a certain injury or medical condition before the accident as a way to offer you less money.
Don’t Provide Private Information
Do not give the names, addresses, or phone numbers of your relatives or doctors that you’ve visited after the accident. Insurance companies use this information to discredit your claim.
It is always good to have a professional opinion when you’re in a car wreck. Talk to a lawyer who has experience with car accident cases so you’ll know how to fight for the insurance settlement you deserve if you are injured or your vehicle is damaged. When insurers know you’re presented by a quality lawyer, they will be more likely to give you a fair settlement.
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