Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to working with insurance companies. Knowing how to communicate effectively and protect yourself can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. How can you avoid the most common mistakes that many drivers make?
Safety First
Before contacting your insurance company, ensure your safety and the safety of others at the scene. Call 911 if necessary and seek medical attention for any injuries. Your health comes first! If it is safe to do so, document the scene by taking photos or videos of the vehicles, damage, license plates, weather conditions, and the surrounding area. Collect contact information from witnesses and the other driver(s), including their insurance details. This evidence can be critical when dealing with insurance adjusters.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Most insurance policies require you to report accidents promptly. Contact your insurer as soon as possible to inform them of the incident. Provide basic details about the accident, but avoid giving lengthy or detailed recorded statements until you’ve consulted with an attorney. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault or liability. The words that you say can and will be used against you later.
Work with an Experienced Attorney
Navigating the insurance claims process can be challenging, especially when dealing with significant injuries or disputes over fault. An experienced personal injury attorney can protect your rights throughout your car accident claim, handle communications with insurance companies, and negotiate on your behalf to secure fair compensation.
Never Assume Insurance Is On Your Side
If the other driver’s car insurance company contacts you, be cautious about what you say. Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their goal is to minimize the payout for your car accident claim. You are not obligated to provide a recorded statement or extensive details to the other driver’s insurer without legal guidance. Politely decline until you have consulted your attorney.
Additionally, even if you believe you may have contributed to the accident, avoid admitting fault to either car insurance company. Determining fault is a complex legal matter that involves examining evidence and laws, and the confusion of a car accident can lead some drivers who are definitively not at fault to wrongly admit guilt. Admissions of fault can jeopardize your claim and reduce your compensation.
Don’t Rush to Settle Your Car Accident Claim
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly to minimize their costs. While it may be tempting to accept a fast payout, doing so could leave you with inadequate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Consult with an attorney to evaluate whether the settlement offer is fair before agreeing to anything.
Know the Tactics Insurance Companies Use
Insurance adjusters may use a variety of tactics to reduce or deny your claim. These can include:
- Downplaying your injuries: Adjusters might argue that your injuries are less severe than they actually are.
- Disputing liability: They may claim you were partially or fully at fault to reduce their liability.
- Delaying the process: Prolonging the claims process can pressure you into accepting a lower settlement as you struggle to cover your bills and living expenses.
Being aware of these tactics can help you stay prepared and respond appropriately.
Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Legal Needs
If you are dealing with injuries in the aftermath of a car accident, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.