What Should You Say to the Insurance Company After a Car Accident?

Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence. In California, where traffic is notorious and accidents are common, it’s crucial to know how to handle interactions with insurance companies after a collision. Whether you are dealing with your own insurance provider or the at-fault driver’s insurer, your words matter. What you say can significantly impact your ability to receive fair compensation for medical bills, property damage, and other losses. Below, Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, PC will guide you through what you should—and shouldn’t—say when communicating with an insurance company after a car accident in California.

Report the Accident, but Don’t Share Too Much Information

After an accident, you’re required to report it to your insurance company as soon as possible. This is a necessary step to ensure that your claim is processed, but it’s important to limit the information you provide. Keep your conversation focused on the basics of the incident, such as the time, date, location, and the parties involved. Refrain from giving detailed descriptions of the accident, your injuries, or who you think was at fault.

Insurance companies may try to use any additional information you share to reduce the amount they owe you. Even something as simple as saying, “I’m fine” or “It wasn’t that bad” could be used against you later, even if you discover your injuries are more serious than you initially thought.

Avoid Admitting Fault

One of the most important things to remember when talking to an insurance adjuster is to avoid admitting fault or apologizing for the accident. In California, determining fault can be a complex process, and liability is often shared between multiple parties. Admitting even partial responsibility for the accident can negatively affect your ability to receive compensation for your injuries.

You may feel inclined to apologize as a reflex or to downplay the severity of the accident, but it’s essential to avoid these tendencies. Stick to the facts, and let the investigation determine who is at fault.

Stick to the Facts When Describing Injuries

After a car accident, you may be asked by the insurance company to describe your injuries. While it’s tempting to give a full account right away, you should be cautious. Some injuries, like whiplash or soft tissue injuries, might not show up immediately after the accident but become apparent days or even weeks later. You may not know the full extent of your injuries in the hours immediately following the accident.

When discussing your injuries with the insurance company, it’s best to keep it simple. Instead of describing your injuries in detail, you can say something like, “I’m seeking medical treatment and will know more after my doctor’s evaluation.” This protects you in case your injuries turn out to be more severe than you initially thought.

Do Not Accept a Quick Settlement

Insurance companies may try to offer you a quick settlement after the accident. While this may be tempting, especially if you’re facing mounting medical bills or time off work, it’s essential to think carefully before accepting any offer. A quick settlement might not fully account for all of your current and future expenses, especially if you need ongoing medical treatment or therapy.

Instead of accepting the first offer, take the time to fully understand the scope of your injuries and damages. It’s advisable to speak with a car accident attorney to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve before making any decisions.

Be Wary of Recorded Statements

Insurance adjusters might ask you to provide a recorded statement about the accident. While this might seem like a standard part of the claims process, it’s important to be cautious. The purpose of a recorded statement is often to gather information that could later be used against you, even if you’re not at fault.

If an insurance company requests a recorded statement, you have the right to decline. Politely tell the adjuster that you’re not ready to provide one at this time. You can always provide written statements later, once you’ve had a chance to fully assess the situation and consult with any necessary professionals.

Understand That the Insurance Company Is Not on Your Side

It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that the insurance company, whether it’s your own or the other driver’s, is on your side. After all, they’re supposed to help you recover financially after a car accident, right? Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. Insurance companies are businesses that are motivated to protect their bottom line, which often means paying out as little as possible on claims.

Even if the adjuster seems friendly or sympathetic, remember that their goal is to minimize the payout. This is why it’s crucial to be careful with what you say and not provide any information that could be used to reduce your compensation.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately and Document Everything

One of the most important steps you can take after a car accident is to seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t feel seriously injured. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries might not become obvious until later. Visiting a doctor immediately helps ensure that any injuries are documented, which can support your claim.

Keep all records related to your medical treatment, including doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any other relevant documents. The more documentation you have, the easier it will be to prove the extent of your injuries and receive appropriate compensation. If the insurance company tries to argue that your injuries weren’t serious or didn’t require treatment, these records will be invaluable.

Contact Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer Samer Habbas

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Los Angeles, California, it’s important to protect your legal rights. The aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies that are trying to minimize their payouts. At Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, PC, we understand the challenges accident victims face, and we’re here to help. To learn more about your legal options, contact Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates, PC by calling 949-727-9300 or contacting us online for a consultation.