TIPS WHEN REPORTING CAR ACCIDENT TO INSURANCE
Should you report a car accident to your insurance? If so, what should you say and what should you tell them. Our car accident lawyers are asked these questions every day. Most people do initially report their own claims, at least to their own insurane company. However, it is a good idea to think in advance about what you will say. To start, the insurance company will want to know if anyone was injured. Then, they will ask how the accident happened. The easiest starting advice our lawyers give is to always be completely honest with the insurance company. If you are not truthful or you are misleading, there can be bad repercussions.
However, in addition to being honest, there are some other things to keep in mind. First, try to avoid giving a recorded statement to the insurance company. Your insurer may require it, but the other insurance generally cannot require a recorded statement. If you are unsure about this, call us a speak with an experienced car accident lawyer. Next, only say what you really know. If they ask how the crash happened, but you didn’t see it, then say that. If you have information you heard from other people or the police report, tell them where you got the information.
DISCUSSING CAR ACCIDENT INJURIES WITH THE INSURANCE COMPANY
Unless you are seriously injured, most people assume they are fine. At the scene of the crash your adrenaline is flowing and you are focused on what is going on around you. Therefore, many people initially report they are “fine” when asked by law enforcement at the scene. However, you may start experiencing symptoms within a few hours. Don’t diminish your symptoms are assume you will by okay. When you are asked by the insurance company, report ALL of your symptoms at that time, no matter how minor they may seem.
Don’t assure the insurance company you will be Okay and won’t need medical treatment. Just tell them accurately what you are experiencing. Don’t exaggerate and don’t diminish or make light of it. You should wait at least 2 – 3 weeks before concluding that you were not more seriously injured. Some auto insurance companies will offer $500 to settle your case right after the crash. Our lawyers advise you don’t take that deal. It’s really not worth the money in case you turn out to be more injured than you thought.
CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS TO HELP MAKE REPORT TO INSURANCE COMPANY
If you have questions about what to say to the insurance company after a car accident, call us. You can speak directly with a top car accident lawyer for a free consultations. We will answer your questions and explain your rights. Our lawyers will meet you at our office, your home, or over Zoom. There is never any charge unless you receive compensation for your injuries.