Car accidents are scary and chaotic, especially if you, or someone you love, received injuries. However, as soon as you are able, you need to contact your insurance company and file a claim.
You may want to discuss the car accident in full with your agent, but there are some things you should not share with your insurer after an incident.
You are fine
It can take hours after an accident to realize that you received an injury due to your adrenaline. Therefore, never tell your insurer that you are fine unless and until you have seen your doctor and undergone a full examination. Make sure a medical professional documents all your injuries, and keep records of these documents and your medical records. Also, avoid signing anything, including a medical release, because it may impact any medical distributions your insurance company owes you.
Opinion statements
Your insurance company needs the facts of the accident. You should have a copy of the police report and discuss what happened. Only share solid facts, things you know. Never discuss your opinions with your agent. If you do not know the answer to any question, do not guess. Just say that you do not know.
Also, avoid providing unnecessary details, such as your speed or distractions while you were driving. Do not discuss your vehicle’s customizations or any other fact that the insurance company can use to reduce or deny your claim.
Your insurance company’s goal is to increase corporate profits. Protect yourself by not offering or consenting to any recorded statements or accepting their first settlement offer.
