What to Avoid Telling Your Insurance Company After a Car Accident

Being involved in a car accident is a disorienting experience. In the moments following the crash, your mind races with thoughts about your safety, the condition of your vehicle, and what steps you need to take next. Amid the chaos, you know that notifying your insurance company is one of the first things to do. However, it is crucial to understand that what you say to your insurer can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.

Avoid Admitting Fault

One of the most important things to avoid is admitting fault. It is natural to want to explain what happened or even apologize, especially if you feel partially responsible. However, statements that suggest you were at fault can be used against you later on, potentially jeopardizing your ability to recover compensation for your damages. Determining fault in a car accident is a complex process that involves a thorough investigation, including reviewing police reports, speaking with witnesses, and examining the scene.

Admitting fault, even inadvertently, could weaken your position before the investigation is complete. Stick to the facts when speaking to your insurance company, and refrain from offering opinions or making statements about who you believe was responsible.

Do Not Provide Detailed Descriptions of Your Injuries

In the immediate aftermath of an accident, it can be challenging to fully understand the extent of your injuries. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not present symptoms until days or even weeks after the accident. Additionally, the shock and adrenaline from the incident can mask pain, leading you to underestimate the severity of your condition.

When speaking with your insurance company, avoid providing detailed descriptions of your injuries or downplaying how you feel. Instead, it is advisable to say that you seek medical attention and will provide more information once a healthcare professional properly evaluates your condition. This approach prevents you from making statements that could be used to undermine the seriousness of your injuries later on.

Avoid Speculating About the Accident

It is important to avoid speculating about the details of the accident when speaking with your insurance company. Stick to the basic facts and avoid offering opinions on how the accident occurred, what you believe caused it, or how fast you or the other driver were going.

Speculation can lead to inconsistencies in your account, which the insurance company may use to challenge your credibility. Provide only the information you are certain of, and let the official investigation determine the specifics of the incident. This cautious approach will help protect your claim from being unfairly diminished or denied.

Do Not Agree to a Recorded Statement Without Legal Advice

Insurance companies often request a recorded statement shortly after the accident. While this may seem like a routine part of the process, it is important to understand that anything you say in a recorded statement can be used to challenge your claim later on.

Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions in a way that may lead you to make statements that could harm your case. It is wise to avoid providing a recorded statement without first consulting with an attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process, ensuring you do not inadvertently say something that could negatively impact your claim.

Do Not Accept a Quick Settlement Offer

After a car accident, you may feel pressured to accept a quick settlement offer from your insurance company, especially if you are facing mounting medical bills or repair costs. However, accepting a settlement offer before fully understanding the extent of your injuries and damages can be costly. Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for the least amount of money possible.

Accepting a quick settlement may forfeit your right to pursue additional compensation if your injuries are more serious than initially thought. Before accepting any settlement offer, it is important to consult with an attorney who can help you evaluate whether the offer is fair and adequate given the circumstances.

A New Brunswick Car Accident Lawyer at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. Will Help You Today

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may not have your best interests at heart. To protect your rights, it is important to approach the claims process cautiously. Speak with a New Brunswick car accident lawyer at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. today. Contact us at 732-247-3600 or online to schedule your free consultation. With offices in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Freehold, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients in Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Somerset County.