After a car accident, receiving a call from an insurance company can feel overwhelming. The representative may sound friendly and helpful, but it’s important to understand that their main goal is to protect the insurance company’s interests—not yours. What you say in these early conversations can have a significant impact on any future claims.
What to Say
When speaking with an insurance adjuster, it’s best to keep your statements clear, brief, and factual. Here are some guidelines:
- Provide basic information only. You can confirm your name, contact information, and the date, time, and location of the accident.
- Stick to observable facts. Share details such as the weather, road conditions, and any vehicle damage. Avoid speculating about fault or the other driver’s actions.
- Be polite but firm. You don’t need to answer every question on the spot. It’s okay to let the adjuster know that you will provide additional information after consulting your attorney.
By keeping your communication concise and factual, you protect yourself from inadvertently saying something that could be used against you later.
What Not to Say
There are several things you should avoid saying to an insurance adjuster:
- Avoid admitting fault. Even a statement like “I didn’t see the other car” could be interpreted as partial responsibility.
- Don’t discuss your injuries in detail. Early on, your injuries may not be fully apparent. Making statements about how minor you feel your injuries are could reduce the compensation you deserve.
- Avoid speculating. Comments about how the accident happened or what the other driver did can be used against you in a claim. Stick to what you personally observed.
Remember, insurance adjusters are trained to gather information that may minimize the company’s financial responsibility. Protect yourself by providing only essential facts and deferring detailed discussions until after consulting a legal professional.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Navigating insurance claims after an accident can be a complex process. Speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney ensures that your rights are protected. Attorneys can communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, gather evidence, and help you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Sacramento Car Accident Attorney
At Del Rio & Caraway, P.C., we have extensive experience handling cases involving car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents. Our team guides clients through the claims process while ensuring their statements and actions do not jeopardize their potential recovery.
Being contacted first by an insurance company may feel urgent, but taking the right precautions is critical. Speak only with the adjuster in factual, concise terms, and consult an attorney before providing additional information. This approach protects your rights and helps you recover fully from your accident.
If an insurance company has contacted you after an accident, don’t navigate the conversation alone. Contact Del Rio & Caraway, P.C. today for a free consultation and ensure your rights are protected. Call (916) 229-6755 or visit delriolawoffice.com.