Learn why you should be wary of giving a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance adjuster after a car accident
If you have been involved in any kind of traffic accident, you probably already know that you need to inform your insurance company ASAP. If there is any doubt as to who caused the accident, or if any of the involved parties’ statements conflict, there will be an investigation.
How you cooperate with this investigation can have a big impact on your ability to recover full and fair compensation for your injuries and suffering.
Here’s what you need to do:
Cooperate Fully with Your Own Insurance Company
Whenever you make a claim for benefits, you are required to cooperate with your own insurance company’s investigation. For example, you may have to speak to an insurance adjuster, provide details about the accident, submit to an examination under oath, or submit a proof of loss. You will probably also have to make a recorded statement. You must provide this statement to your own insurance company or they may void your coverage.
Do Not Provide a Statement to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
You are not required to give the other driver’s insurance adjuster the same level of cooperation that you give your own insurance company. If the other driver’s insurance adjuster asks for a recorded statement, you do not have to provide it. Getting a recorded statement is in their best interests, not yours, because:
- They may be able to extract information from you that can be used to minimize your damages or defeat your claim entirely.
- If they contact you quickly after the accident, you may not be aware of the full extent of your injuries and damages. If you leave anything out, it will be very hard to get the insurance company to revise their valuation of your claim later on to account for additional damages
Call an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
If you have been seriously injured in a car accident, your best course of action is to contact an experienced car accident attorney such as The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker. As your attorney, we can help you manage interactions with the other driver’s insurance company in a way that protects your rights and interests. We can also advise you on the fairness of any settlement offers you may receive. For a free initial consultation, call us at 800-333-0000.
