Getting in touch with your insurance provider after a car accident is essential to ensuring that the incident is thoroughly documented and that you will not be held responsible for payments as the victim. However, you must be careful about how you approach the process of discussing the incident with your auto insurance provider. Not all insurers have their customers’ best interests in mind. This is why it is ever so important to speak with highly knowledgeable car accident lawyers who have extensive experience in this matter and can provide important information to guide you through the process.
As you report the crash to your insurance company, be as objective as possible in your account, and provide all the necessary details without speculating liability. Keep the following additional information in mind when corresponding with your insurance company after a car crash.
Reporting a Car Accident to a Car Insurance Provider
One of the most important things you must be aware of when discussing your car accident with an insurer is that you do not speculate or admit fault whatsoever. As mentioned above, the company does not always prioritize their policyholders’ wellbeing. Instead, they are focused on saving as much money as possible, which can leave people afraid to utilize the very insurance resources that they pay for monthly or annually. To keep this problem from arising, do not issue any form of an apology to the other driver, or speculate the possibility of your liability in discussions with your auto insurer.
On the other hand, you do want to provide the information listed below when you contact your insurer immediately following the crash:
- Personal information of all parties involved in the crash. This includes their name, phone number, address, and insurance policy information.
- Details of all vehicles involved. Give the color of the vehicle, along with the make, model, and year.
- Agency that responded to the scene of the crash. What agency did you call to assist you at the scene? Inform your insurance company if you called highway patrol, the municipal police, or anyone else.
- Date, time, and location of the crash.
- Environmental details surrounding the incident. (i.e., The crash took place on X street, it was raining, etc.)
It is best to provide this correspondence immediately following a car crash. This way, you won’t allow yourself time to forget the details of the incident. A clear memory will strengthen your case since all details will be true and correct to the best of your knowledge.
What to Avoid When Talking to Your Insurance Company
In addition to avoiding any speculation about liability after your car accident, you will also need to avoid the following in discussions with your insurer after an accident:
- Do not provide any record statements without a lawyer present.
- Do not discuss the details of your injuries until you have been evaluated by a medical professional.
- If a question of injuries arises, do not lie whatsoever, and do not minimize the extent of your physical injuries either.
- Do not sign any liability release forms or settlement agreements until you have the assistance of a lawyer and have collected estimates and bills for the total amount of compensation required.
As you discuss your incident with your insurance provider, get the help of a licensed car accident lawyer. They will ensure that all discussions proceed appropriately and that you get the support you need during this difficult time.
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