After an accident, you should exchange insurance information with the other driver and promptly notify your insurance company about the accident. You’ll likely also receive a call from the other driver’s insurance company. Their goal is to minimize your compensation, so it pays to be prepared for this call.
Attempting to handle communications with the insurance company on your own can damage your claim for compensation. Remember, adjusters may use anything you say against you, so it’s best to have an experienced lawyer on your side.
Our skilled attorneys can anticipate questions insurance companies ask after a car accident and respond in a way that protects your rights. Contact us online or call (469) 813-7332 to schedule a free consultation.
Common Questions To Expect From Insurance Companies
Insurance companies don’t ask the same questions in every car accident case. Their adjusters will only ask questions they believe will minimize your compensation or delay your claim. Below are some common questions insurance companies ask car accident victims and what to keep in mind when responding.
What Led to the Accident and Why?
The insurance company will want to know what you think caused the accident. The intent behind this question is to get you to say something that suggests you’re at fault. Keep any opinions you have about the accident’s cause to yourself. You can decline to answer this question or simply say, “I don’t know.”
Who Was—or How Many Vehicles Were—Involved in the Accident?
Expect the insurance company to ask about the parties involved in the accident. Answering this question likely won’t hurt your case, but keep your answer simple and factual without speculating. If you’re concerned about how to answer, it’s best to consult with your lawyer beforehand.
When and Where Did the Accident Occur?
This is another question that shouldn’t harm your case—as long as you stick to the basics, such as the time and geographic location of the accident. If you choose to answer this question, don’t go into detail about the weather, road, or lighting conditions. The insurance company may use this information to clear their insured driver of liability.
What Were You Doing Before the Accident Occurred?
The insurance company will attempt to clear their insured driver of liability and blame you instead. This may involve asking about your actions leading up to the accident. If you admit to using your phone, eating, or doing something else that could have taken your attention off the road, the insurance company may argue that you were at fault for the accident.
Where Were You Coming From and Which Direction Were You Heading?
Asking where you were headed and where you were coming from is another way for the insurance company to get you to incriminate yourself. For example, if you were in a hurry to get to an appointment, the insurance adjuster may suggest that you were driving recklessly or speeding. If you were coming from a bar or party, they may argue that you were drunk.
Did You Sustain Any Injury?
The insurance company may call before you seek medical care and ask if you sustained injuries from the accident, hoping you’ll say no. Remember, not all injuries are immediately apparent after an accident, and you may not realize the full extent of your injuries until after you’ve spoken to the insurer. Don’t provide information about your injuries without first consulting a doctor and lawyer.
Did You Have Any Pre-Existing Injuries?
You can only recover compensation for injuries caused by your accident. If you admit to having pre-existing injuries, the insurance company may claim that your new injuries were a result of your pre-existing condition instead. Our lawyers can evaluate your medical records and how pre-existing conditions impact your claim.
Can You Sign a Claim Release?
A claim release is a document that releases the insurance company from liability, ending your claim. Insurance adjusters may pressure you into signing a release, but you have the right to decline. Never sign anything without getting your lawyer’s input.
What Questions Should I Ask My Insurance Company After an Accident?
If you speak with an insurance company, keep it brief, stick to the basic facts, and refer them to your attorney. That said, you can gain some clarity by asking these questions:
- What information do you need for my accident claim?
- What does my insurance cover?
- Will my insurance rate go up after the accident?
- Can I get a copy of my insurance claim file?
- Are you recording this phone call?
Other Tips To Note When Speaking With an Insurance Adjuster
Below is a shortlist of tips that can help when talking with an insurance adjuster:
- Stick to the facts. Don’t speculate about what happened.
- Don’t say more than the insurer needs to know. Avoid discussing your injuries, actions before and after the accident, and medical history.
- Don’t fall for pressure tactics. Insurance adjusters may press you into answering trick questions, giving a recorded statement, or signing a release. You have the right to decline and seek legal advice.
- Don’t imply that you were at fault or admit to any wrongdoing. Avoid phrases like “I’m sorry” or “I should have been more careful.”
- Pause before answering. Consider the adjuster’s motive and how your response could impact your claim. When in doubt, consult your car accident attorney before responding.
- Keep a record of all conversations and communications, including dates, times, names, and what was discussed.
- Never accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer without consulting an attorney. It is likely worth much less than what you’re entitled to for your damages.
- Remember that adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you, even if it’s your own insurance company. Their goal is to minimize payouts and save their company money. They do not have your best interests at heart.
What You Need Before You Call Your Insurance Company After a Car Accident
Ensure you have the right documents before speaking with an insurance adjuster. The insurance company will need to gather some basic details from you, and having this information ready can make for a more productive conversation. If the insurance company requests the following information, you can safely share it without harming your case:
- Your full name.
- Your auto insurance policy number.
- Vehicle information, such as your license plate number and VIN.
- The names, contact information, and insurance information of other parties involved in the accident.
How Can Shamieh Law Help You Prepare for a Car Accident Lawsuit?
Our attorneys have recovered over $125 million for personal injury victims and their families throughout Texas and Louisiana. Our award-winning legal team is here to guide you through each step of the car accident claims process and improve your odds of securing fair compensation. Our services include:
- Handling questions from insurance companies after your car accident.
- Investigating the accident to determine who is at fault.
- Gathering evidence to prove the at-fault party’s liability.
- Calculating the full and fair value of your claim.
- Negotiating a fair settlement.
Taking your case to court if the insurer refuses to compensate you fairly.
If you were injured in a car accident, contact us online or call (469) 813-7332 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us take the burden of dealing with insurance companies off your plate. Because we work on a contingency fee basis, you pay
