The time after an auto accident can be a whirlwind and a stressful one at that. But, during this crucial period, you may need to file an insurance claim to recover compensation for damages.
The claims process can be confusing, especially as you recover from an accident. So, if the insurance company asks for a recorded statement, you may wonder if you should oblige, or if doing so may hurt your claim.
In this article, we’ll discuss whether you’re required to provide a recorded statement to an insurance company after an accident.
Why Do Insurance Companies Ask for Recorded Statements?
After receiving a claim, insurance companies investigate the accident and damages to determine how much to pay the policyholder. This process involves gathering evidence, examining the damage, and taking statements. Sometimes, the insurance adjuster will ask you for a recorded statement to get your side of the story.
Unfortunately, insurance companies are often aiming to minimize the damage and reduce the claim’s value (or reject it outright). So, they may scrutinize your statement, looking for points that could diminish your compensation.
Do I Have to Provide a Recorded Statement?
You’re not required to provide a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. In most cases, doing so could hurt your claim. Instead, consult an experienced auto accident attorney for professional insight. The attorney can typically communicate directly with the insurance company, helping to secure the best chance of claim approval.
In most cases, your own auto policy may have a provision that requires you to cooperate with your own insurance company, including providing them with a recorded statement if they request one. Again, having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side may negate the need for the recorded statement, or if it is necessary, your attorney can help prepare you for the statement, limit the questions to reasonable inquiries, and protect you from an overly zealous insurance adjuster – who may forget that you are the customer paying their employer’s premiums and that you should be treated respectfully.
Insurance companies are aiming to make the greatest possible profit. Therefore, they may not have your best interests at heart after a crash. This is why it’s wise to enlist the help of an expert attorney throughout the claims process, as your attorney can protect your rights and secure your rightful compensation.
Reach out to the expert team at Weldon & Rothman, PL today for a free case review.