While it’s essential to notify your insurance company after your car accident, it’s equally important to remember that they are not your friend.
Your insurer should be one of the first persons you contact after you’ve been involved in a car accident. Notifying your insurer as soon as possible gives them the incentive to act accurately and quickly, reducing the amount of time the claim takes to process.
That said, it’s worth noting that insurance companies are profitable businesses. This means they may try to use your words against you, so taking extra precautions when speaking with them is essential. Here are some tips for talking to your insurance company after a car accident.
Find Out Who You Are Talking To
When you call your insurance company, it’s essential to find the name of the customer care agent you’re speaking to. Keeping track of who you’ve talked to can help prevent confusion if other agents or adjusters become involved. It can also be helpful for your own record-keeping purposes. Knowing who you are speaking with will enable you to keep an accurate log of your conversations and ensure that all information is recorded correctly for future reference.
Furthermore, if a dispute arises or questions about coverage arise after the initial contact, having a specific agent attached to the claim can make it easier for everyone involved as issues can be traced back to one particular point of contact.
Limit the Information You Give to the Insurance Company
The more information you share, the more open you are to scrutiny. When speaking with an insurance company after an accident, be careful not to give out too much – only provide the necessary facts, such as:
- Your name
- The details of the parties involved
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Make and model of cars
Do not elaborate on what happened before or after the event, as this could be used against you later by the insurance company or other involved parties.
Don’t Speculate or Guess
If you’re unsure what happened, the insurance customer care agent may encourage you to speculate or guess. Don’t fall into this trap! Even if it seems like a non-issue at the time, any amount of guessing could lead to incorrect information in your claim – which could cost you more in terms of money and hassle down the road. Try and refrain from speculating on the details of your accident, and answer questions with only information you have confirmed to be accurate.
More tips:
- Don’t discuss your injuries
- It is okay to postpone the conversation
Talking to an insurance company after a car accident can seem intimidating and complex. However, with the right research and preparation, you can navigate your way through the process and get your deserved compensation. Communicate calmly and clearly, answer questions honestly and remember that an experienced attorney should always be on hand to provide guidance.
Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.
Our sole focus is helping motor vehicle accident victims receive total and fair compensation. We are fully prepared to handle the most complicated cases. At The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C., we never rush to settle your case for less than its total value. We do not hesitate to take matters to court when insurers refuse to treat you fairly.