One of the most frustrating aspects of suffering an injury is having to deal with insurance companies after a car accident. But the attorneys with The Eberst Law Firm have some information to make this experience a little less painful. We’re also here to help you get the money you deserve if the accident wasn’t your fault. Call 1-888-CALL-JON or contact us online for a free consultation.
An Insurance Company is Calling Me! What Do I Say?
When an insurance company calls you after a car accident, your responses must be cautious and strategic. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Be polite and cooperative: Answer the call and remain courteous throughout the conversation. Remember that the person on the other end is just doing their job.
- Confirm the caller’s identity: Ask for the name, position, and contact information of the person calling. This will help you verify their authenticity and keep a record of who you spoke with.
- Gather basic information: Only provide basic details about the accident, such as the date, time, and location. Don’t go into excessive detail or accept fault for the incident.
Tips for Answering Questions from Insurance Companies
If you must answer an insurer’s questions, here are some other critical tips. Never feel obligated to speak with anyone if it makes you feel uncomfortable. Talk to an attorney with The Eberst Law Firm instead. We’ll deal with the insurer, so you don’t have to.
Don’t Comment on Your Injuries
Injuries sustained in a car accident may not always be immediately apparent. Some injuries, such as soft tissue damage or internal injuries, can have delayed symptoms that may only become evident in the hours or days following the accident. You may downplay their severity or overlook potential complications by prematurely discussing your injuries.
Consult a medical professional for a thorough evaluation of your injuries. A healthcare provider can conduct necessary tests, examinations, and diagnostics to accurately assess the extent and impact of your injuries. Their expert opinion will provide a comprehensive understanding of your condition, which is essential for accurately documenting your injuries and pursuing fair compensation.
Don’t Volunteer Information
Adjusters are skilled at gathering information the insurer may use to minimize your claim. By volunteering unnecessary information, you may inadvertently provide the insurance company with ammunition to dispute your claim or diminish its value. Stick to answering the specific questions asked, providing concise and factual responses.
Don’t Record a Statement or Sign Anything
Insurance adjusters may ask leading questions or try to elicit statements that can be misconstrued or taken out of context. By refusing to make recorded statements, you can avoid potential misrepresentation or manipulation of your words.
Insurance companies may present documents for you to sign, such as a release or settlement agreement, without providing sufficient time for review or fully explaining the implications. Signing such documents without legal advice may result in waiving certain rights or settling for less compensation than you deserve. It’s crucial to have an attorney review any documents before signing to ensure your interests are protected.
Don’t Guess
During conversations with insurance companies after a car accident, it’s vital to avoid guessing and instead focus on providing accurate and reliable information.
When you guess about specific details or try to fill in gaps in your memory, you risk providing inaccurate information. Inaccuracies can undermine the credibility of your claim and allow the insurance company to challenge your story’s validity. It’s better to be honest about what you don’t know or remember rather than provide potentially misleading information.
Do Tell the Truth
Providing false information to an insurance company can have serious legal consequences. Insurance fraud is a criminal offense and can result in fines, penalties, and even imprisonment. It’s essential to adhere to the truth — not only because it’s the right thing to do but also to avoid legal repercussions.
When you tell the truth from the beginning and remain consistent throughout the claims process, it helps build a solid and reliable narrative. If you change your story or contradict yourself, it gives the insurance company an opportunity to cast doubt on your credibility. By being truthful, you establish a consistent and reliable account of the accident, making your claim more persuasive.
Do Take Notes
Keeping accurate records of your conversations provides a reliable account of what was discussed. This includes details such as the date, time, duration, and topics covered during the conversation. This readily available information helps you recall specific details and accurately respond to subsequent inquiries.
By noting down the names and positions of the individuals you speak with, you create a record of the people involved in your claim. This documentation helps establish a communication chain, ensuring you can refer back to specific individuals if needed.
Tactics the Insurance Adjuster Might Use to Devalue Your Accident Claim
Insurance adjusters work to minimize the amount of compensation paid out by the insurance company. They may employ various tactics to devalue your accident claim, such as:
- Quick settlement offers: They may try to offer a fast settlement that seems appealing, but it’s often a lowball offer that may only partially cover your expenses. Be cautious and consult with an attorney before settling.
- Blaming pre-existing conditions: An adjuster may attribute your injuries to pre-existing conditions, arguing that the accident didn’t cause them. It’s essential to have proper medical documentation to refute such claims.
- Delaying tactics: Adjusters might intentionally delay the claims process, hoping you become desperate for a settlement.
Hire an Experienced Car Accident Attorney ASAP
The insurance company would love it if you didn’t get legal help. Given the potential complexities and tactics involved in dealing with insurance companies, you should hire an experienced car accident attorney with The Eberst Law Firm as soon as possible. Here are just some of the ways we can help.
Legal Expertise
Attorneys understand the intricacies of insurance claims and personal injury laws. They can navigate the process on your behalf, protecting your rights and gathering solid evidence to maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Claim Evaluation
An attorney can also assess the value of your claim based on the extent of your injuries, property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and other relevant factors. They’ll fight for your best interests and strive to obtain the compensation you deserve.
Communication with Insurance Companies
As stated earlier, a lawyer with The Eberst Law Firm can handle all communication with the insurance company, alleviating your burden. We also know how to negotiate effectively and protect your interests during discussions or settlement negotiations.
Schedule a free case review by using our online form or calling 1-888-CALL-JON.
