Car accidents are traumatic, expensive, burdensome, and something we all hope to avoid. However, the average driver will experience at least three collisions in their lifetime, Some of these may not even be your fault. After an accident, your car might be destroyed or in need of repairs. It may also leave you and passengers severely injured and in need of compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Regardless, the next step is to file an insurance claim through the at-fault driver’s insurance provider. This process can be tricky and intimidating, but being prepared can help.
Some insurance adjusters try to persuade the claimant (person filing the claim) to downplay and provide inaccurate statements that can harm the claim. Certain questions may seem harmless, but the way you answer a question can have a profound effect on the value of your claim. It is important that you provide clear and accurate information, since false or vague information can lead to more problems.
Remember, you are not obligated to speak to an insurance adjuster before hiring an attorney. In fact, it is highly recommended to hire a personal injury lawyer for consultation or representation.
Questions Insurance Companies Ask After a Car Accident
When and where did the accident occur?
It is understandable to be shaken and distracted after an accident, but you should try to document as much information about the accident as possible. Take plenty of photos and videos. Write down the exact date, time, and location at which it occurred.
Who was involved in the accident?
Document how many individuals were involved in the accident, and differentiate who was in your vehicle, the other vehicle(s), or bystanders.
Was a police report filed?
It is usually helpful to have a police report on record about an accident. A report often indicates who was at fault and can be used as a credible source.
What type of damage did your vehicle experience?
This is also where photo and video evidence will be necessary. Be sure to provide as many photos and videos as possible from a variety of angles that clarify the extent of the damage. This is especially helpful to legitimize the severity of your claim.
Did you sustain any injuries?
Before answering this question, seek medical attention, even if you do not feel immediate pain. You want to have accurate medical documentation by the time you answer this question. Some injuries are not apparent right away and receiving medical attention after answering “No” may lead an insurance adjuster to doubt your claims. They may also come to the conclusion that an event after the accident was the reason for the injury.
Will I Be Contacted the Other Party’s Insurer?
It is normal to exchange insurance information with all parties involved in a car accident. In doing so, you should expect calls from the other party’s insurance company, asking a variety of questions that sound familiar. You may also expect them to ask questions that are framed differently, which can harm your claim depending on the answer. In any case, it is recommended that you direct such calls to your personal injury lawyer.