After a car accident, talking to the insurance company without your lawyer present is a bad idea. The insurance company for the driver who injured you will always want to take your recorded statement as soon as possible after a car accident. The insurance adjuster will tell you they are “investigating the claim,” but that is only a half-truth. They are also trying to get you to say something they can use against you to deny and defend the insurance claim.
In some instances, the law may actually require you to give the insurance company a statement. For example, if you are making a claim against your own insurance company for benefits after a car accident, you are legally required to cooperate with their investigation. Still, there is a time and place to communicate with the insurance company. Without exception, that time is after you have hired your lawyer. An experienced car accident lawyer will be able to help you prepare and get organized for your statement. A good car accident lawyer will also help you understand how to handle an insurance adjuster who is trying to get you to say something that can be used to deny or defend your claim. (So go hire a lawyer today!).
Many insurance adjusters will also tell you that there is no need for you to hire a lawyer because they are willing to settle your claim out of court. What they do not tell you is that they are going to try to settle with you for a low-ball amount. Most settlement offers made to unrepresented folks are not going fully compensate them for their medical bills, future medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The insurance company knows it is very unlikely you will beat them in court if you do not have a lawyer. Their low settlement offer to you will reflect their confidence in their ability to win if your car accident claim goes to court.
So go hire a lawyer. It will be the smartest decision you make after your car accident.
Austin Bradley Law Office is a personal injury law practice located in Joplin, Missouri. Feel free to give us a call at (417) 385-1338. You can also send us a message through our website by clicking here.
