After a car accident, your insurance company and the insurance company of the other driver will ask for your version of the incident. Your version of the events will directly affect their findings and how much compensation you get. You don’t want to make a mistake by saying the wrong thing, but you also need to provide your statement. Learn the best tactics when talking to your insurance company after a car accident with these simple tips.
Never Admit Fault
When telling the insurance company what happened, stick to the facts instead of attributing blame, even if you take responsibility for the incident. The insurance companies or responding police officers will determine the amount of fault on each side. Admitting blame will likely get you a lower settlement than you should get. Additionally, because everyone has their own perspective, you might take the blame for something that wasn’t actually your fault. Your insurance company will use the admission of guilt against you, and it can potentially damage your case.
Don’t Say More Than Necessary
You may feel compelled to divulge every detail of the accident to the insurance adjuster, but you probably shouldn’t. While venting, you may say something incriminating or add an additional detail that complicates things and prolongs the settlement process. Provide thorough information when asked, but stay concise and on topic. Only offer information when requested unless it supports your case.
Stay Calm and Polite
A car accident can bring up intense emotions, and filing an insurance claim can get frustrating. However, you don’t want to let your emotions get the best of you. If you cry, scream, or raise your voice at the insurance company’s representative, you may make it more difficult for your insurance company to properly help you. Do some breathing exercises if necessary before you call, but maintain a calm and polite demeanor. This can help facilitate the claim process. Besides that, you simply shouldn’t take your anger out on the customer service representative.
Talk to Your Lawyer First
The most important thing you can do to ensure you tell the insurance company the right thing is to talk to a car accident lawyer. Hire a lawyer and give them the details of the case, including any evidence you have. Your lawyer can analyze the case and tell you the best way to move forward. Don’t provide your statement to the insurance company after a car accident until you talk to a car accident lawyer. You will find a wide range of accident attorneys in your area that can provide a free consultation and possibly take on the case.
Seemingly innocuous statements can greatly damage your case when you’re talking to insurance companies. Be very careful about what you say, sticking to facts without exaggerating or downplaying anything. By watching your words and consulting with a lawyer, you can give yourself a better chance of getting the settlement you deserve.
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