Tips for Talking With Insurance Companies After a Car Accident
One of the first steps that a driver has to take following an accident is to contact their insurance provider and file an accident claim. As the claim is investigated, the driver and other involved parties will need to speak with insurance adjusters.
It can be intimidating to talk about the details of an accident, but car accident attorneys at Reed & Terry, L.L.P. offer tips for talking with insurance companies after a car accident. This advice can help drivers in Sugar Land, Katy, Richmond, TX and surrounding areas handle their claim easily and effectively.
Do Not Distort The Facts
Drivers sometimes feel the need to exaggerate or distort the details of an accident so that their claim looks stronger. Lying about the facts of an accident is a bad idea. Insurance companies have investigators whose job it is to sort out the details of a crash
If a driver is found lying, their claim will likely be denied and they can miss out on the compensation they are due for accident damages.
Provide Only Information That Is Asked For
Providing factual information about an accident is a must, but providing extra details is not necessary. Drivers should provide only general information, such as:
- Where and when the accident occurred
- Who was involved in the accident
- What type of accident it was
- Contact information for other involved drivers and any witnesses
If an insurance provider asks a question and the driver is unsure of the answer, they should avoid guessing or offering an estimate.
Do Not Admit Fault
It is important that drivers do not admit fault for an accident, whether or not they believe that they may have caused the collision. There are often laws and extenuating circumstances that drivers are not aware of that may have an effect on accident liability.
Drivers should stick to the facts and let investigators determine who is at-fault.
Do Not Deny Injuries
Insurance companies often ask drivers about injuries shortly after an accident. When speaking with insurance companies, drivers should not deny injuries.
It often takes time for injuries to become apparent. It is important that accident victims allow time for injuries to develop, and to see a doctor, if possible, before denying that they have been injured in the accident.
Do Not Accept a Quick Settlement Offer
If an insurance company accepts liability for an accident, they will attempt to settle the claim quickly. Like any other business, their goal is to make money, so the less they pay out on accident claims, the more beneficial it is to them.
Accident victims often accept the first settlement offer they receive, either because they want to close the claim or they don’t realize there are any other options. We strongly advise collision victims to consult with a car accident attorney before accepting a settlement offer from an insurance company.
Schedule a Free Case Review
If you have been involved in a car accident, we recommend that you discuss the details of your case with our experienced attorneys. To schedule a free case review at Reed & Terry, L.L.P., send us a essage online or call (281) 201-0988.