The average person will be in four automobile accidents throughout the course of their life, and while that may seem like a lot, that certainly doesn’t make you an expert on handling the situation with the insurance company after the fact. Insurance companies are profit giants because they are really good at limiting their liability after an accident. If you’re not careful when you’re speaking to them, you can give them all the ammo they need to skimp on your claim. Below, we share three things you’ll want to avoid saying when talking with the insurance company after a car accident.
Avoid These Three Things
When talking with the insurance company, remember that less is more. Stick to the facts, but only offer up information when asked and avoid saying anything that could hurt your claim. Here are three things that can tank your claim, and why you should avoid saying them when talking with an insurance adjuster after your accident.
“It Was My Fault” – Whether you say this expressly or imply it based on your version of events, it’s never a good idea to admit fault to the insurance company. You may think that because Minnesota is a no-fault state when it comes to car insurance that it really doesn’t matter that you admit to your role in the accident. No fault insurance only covers a portion of medical bills and damages, so if bills exceed that amount and you admit fault, you may be on the end of the hook when the bill comes due. Even if this comes from your insurance company, you’ll feel it in the form of increased premiums. Don’t say it was your fault or admit to actions like texting and driving that could convey fault.
“Yes I’m Ready To Provide A Statement” – Don’t paint yourself into a corner and provide a statement until you’ve connected with a personal injury lawyer. Your lawyer will help to prep you on what questions will be asked and things you’ll want to avoid saying when discussing your case. We’re not going to coach you on what to say, but we will explain how the insurance company will try to get you to say things to limit their liability. Additionally, talking to an insurance adjuster before damages or medical injuries have been established can limit your ability to collect those damages later, so don’t be in a hurry to talk to the insurance company. Better yet, if possible, just tell the insurance company to contact your lawyer directly, and speak with your lawyer to ensure you’re in the clear to make any statements before you opt to give a recorded statement.
“I’ll Accept That Offer” – Finally, never agree to a settlement offer until your lawyer has looked it over first. In the vast majority of instances, it’s in your best interest to decline the first lowball offer. Insurance companies are hoping you’ll just agree and jump on the first payment to put an end to your claim, but you could be leaving tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars on the table if you’re too quick to agree to a deal. Run all settlement offers by your attorney first and make sure they address both your current and future expenses related to your case.
If you want help navigating this conversation or your claim in general after an automobile accident, reach out to the team at Hey Workers today for more information.
