Within a few days of your car accident, you’ll likely start seeing phone calls from your insurance company and the insurance companies representing other parties involved in the accident. Knowing how to approach a car accident statement can improve your outcomes, whether you were at fault or another driver was.
Do You Legally Have to Give a Statement to the Insurance Company?
Before you begin giving statements to insurance companies, understand which insurer you actually need to provide a statement to.
First, your own insurance company will likely call you soon after the accident to collect details. You do need to give a statement to your own insurance company, as you signed a contract when you purchased your insurance coverage saying you would give a statement about any claims you make. When your insurance company calls you, it will likely record your conversation for its records.
However, you do not need to give a statement to any other insurance companies. You have no contractual obligation to speak to these insurance adjusters. As attorneys who have seen car accident statements accidentally incriminate clients, we do not recommend giving a statement to third-party insurance companies.
If another person was at fault for the accident, their insurer might call you down the line to collect details for the insurance claim. You can recommend that they review the police report or that you send them a written statement instead of providing details over the phone.
Approaching Your Statement Strategically
Whether you’re speaking with your own insurance company or answering questions for another insurance company, you’ll want to approach all communications strategically. Insurance companies are always looking for ways to reduce your payout. If you admit fault or downplay the accident in any way, you may unintentionally reduce your compensation.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you plan for your car accident statement:
Have an Attorney with You
Hiring an attorney immediately can protect you throughout your insurance claim. Your attorney can be right next to you while you’re talking to the insurance company, helping you understand what to say and what not to say during your communications.
Understand Your Rights
Understanding the steps you must take after an accident and the ones you can avoid can help you achieve a favorable outcome in your insurance claim. Ask your attorney to explain your rights after the car accident and help you protect them during the claim.
Know That Less Is More
When it comes to giving a car accident statement, less is more. Avoid going off on tangents or giving unnecessary details. You don’t want to risk saying something that could admit fault or reduce your payout for property damage and medical bills.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Maryland Today
Working with a qualified attorney is a crucial step as you navigate your car accident claim. Before giving a car accident statement to the other driver’s insurance company, contact our attorneys at Johnnie Bond Law today at 202-683-6803 to schedule your free consultation.