Following an auto accident, you will need to contact your insurance company right away, and that phone call is more important than most people realize. What you tell your insurance provider could impact the compensation that you receive, and that is why all drivers need to understand their rights and responsibilities after a collision.
Contact Them Immediately
Even if your state has a lengthy statute of limitations, your insurance provider probably has very strict regulations regarding claims. In most cases, you will need to initiate the claims process within 24 hours of the collision as long as you aren’t seriously injured. If you don’t file within that time frame, then you might not be able to file at all or you could be subject to penalties.
Only Give Them Basic Information
When you are filing a claim with your insurance provider, it is important to remember that they are a for-profit business. They are going to make more money when they keep compensation to an absolute minimum, and that is why you must only give them basic information. That includes where the accident took place, what time of day it occurred, and who was involved. Admitting guilt or trying to embellish any information could have a huge impact on your case later on.
Don’t Speak with Any Other Insurance Companies
Depending on the severity of the collision, you might be contacted by other insurance providers or legal representatives. If any other party contacts you after you speak with your own insurance company, then you must politely ask them to stop calling you immediately. Any information that you give those individuals will be used against you, and they must stop contacting you once you have asked them to do so.
Refer Them to Your Lawyer
One of the easiest ways to deal with the insurance companies is to refer them to your attorney. These cases can become very convoluted, and that is why you should consult with an accident lawyer are soon as possible. Your lawyer will be able to take over your case and negotiate with the claims adjusters so that you can focus on your health and well-being.
An insufficient insurance payment could impact your life for many years to come, and you must never allow your insurance provider to bully you. With an experienced lawyer by your side, you will be able to build an airtight case from the ground up.
Author Info: Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University and now writes articles about business, health, home improvement, and family. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing.
