Talking To Your Insurance Company After an Accident
You should communicate with your own insurance company as soon as you can after your accident to report it and claim your policy benefits, but it’s important to seek legal counsel before you speak with another party’s insurance carrier.
When talking to your own insurer, always give them accurate information and comply with all of the requirements stipulated by your policy, but avoid guessing when you don’t have clear answers to their questions.
Talking to Other Insurers
Communicating with another party’s insurance provider requires a careful approach. Their adjusters may ask you for:
- Detailed or recorded statements about how the accident happened
- Information about your injuries
- Your previous medical history
If you provide this information, it may later be compared to police reports, medical records, and other forms of evidence when damages and liability are being evaluated. Unfortunately, it could also be used to reduce the value of your claim, which is why it’s important not to exaggerate or minimize any details.
Stick to the facts you know. If, for instance, your medical condition is still developing, it’s better to say that your treatment is ongoing rather than trying to estimate the extent of your injuries or your recovery trajectory.
It also pays to understand exactly what medical records an insurer is requesting and why. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you to understand which documents are necessary and whether or not you should provide the ones requested. Remember to avoid signing a settlement release until you know what the settlement will resolve, and whether your future treatment costs and other losses have been included.
Understanding Your Legal Obligations
It’s essential to report your accident to your insurer to avoid complicating your claim. However, you are under no obligation to provide detailed information or recorded statements to other parties’ insurance companies, nor must you comply with any pressure to redirect your claim, as per 31 Pa. Code §146.8.
If an insurer requests a statement or further details from you, your lawyer can provide you with valuable advice to help you protect your future claim. They can also handle communications with the opposing insurer and assist you should fault be disputed in your case.