When you are involved in an accident, it can be incredibly frustrating to deal with the aftermath. Not only are you trying to seek medical attention for your injuries, but you also need to ensure you inform your insurance agency of the collision. However, when you exchange information with the other driver, the last thing you expect is to hear from their insurance company directly. Before you start speaking about the accident, you may want to think twice. The following blog explores why giving a statement is a bad idea and how a Sacramento auto accident lawyer can assist you if you’ve been injured in a collision.
Why Shouldn’t I Talk to the Insurance Company of the Negligent Driver?
When you are involved in a collision, it’s important to ensure you exchange insurance information with the other driver so you can report back to your respective carriers. However, when their insurance adjuster contacts you and asks for a statement, you must proceed carefully.
The company isn’t calling to see how you feel or because they want to hear your version of the accident. In reality, they’re calling in the hopes that you say something that will invalidate your claim. They want to do everything possible to reduce the value of your claim or, even worse, avoid paying you by holding you entirely responsible for the collision. As such, you should protect yourself by refusing to speak with them.
It’s imperative to understand that you are under no legal obligation to speak with the negligent driver’s insurance company. The only people you must cooperate with following a collision are the police, your insurance company, and the Department of Motor Vehicles.
What Should I Do if They Keep Calling?
If you have informed the insurance agent you are not going to provide a statement but they insist or continue calling, it’s imperative to ensure you take the appropriate steps. It’s in your best interest to provide your attorney’s contact information and inform the adjuster that any questions they have can be answered by your legal representative. If you do not have an attorney, ask for the insurer’s information and inform them that your lawyer will be in touch with them.
You should take these steps if they ask for a verbal or written statement.
As you can see, speaking to the insurance company of the other party can be detrimental to the outcome of your case. That’s why obtaining legal representation as soon as possible is critical to protecting yourself in these matters. Your attorney will answer questions on your behalf so the insurance company cannot take advantage of you.
If you’ve been injured, the Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes is ready to help. Our firm understands how complicated these matters can be, which is why we are dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about how we can represent you.