If the other driver’s insurance company asks for a recorded statement regarding a car accident claim, you are not required to provide one. It is in your best interest to consult with an Atlanta car accident attorney before agreeing to provide a recorded account of events.
Giving a statement can potentially harm your case, as anything you say may be used to justify denying or limiting your claim. However, you may need to provide a statement if your auto insurance company asks for one.
How a Recorded Statement Can Hurt Your Claim
The adjuster’s job is to protect the insurance company’s bottom line. They are not on your side. Here are some of the risks of providing a recorded statement.
- Misinterpretation: Your words can be misinterpreted or taken out of context, potentially damaging your claim.
- Inaccuracy: You might inadvertently provide inaccurate information, especially if you’re still in shock or stressed from the incident.
- Leading Questions: Insurance adjusters are skilled at asking leading questions designed to elicit responses that may inadvertently harm your claim.
- Permanent Record: Once a statement is recorded, it becomes a permanent part of your claim record. Any discrepancies between your initial statement and subsequent recollections can cast doubt on your credibility.
In general, your lawyer should handle any requests for information from the other driver’s insurance company.
What If Your Insurance Company Requests a Statement?
Many policies require you to provide a statement to your own auto insurance company if they request one.
Seek legal counsel to determine if other evidence like medical records, police reports, or eyewitness accounts may suffice while your claim is being processed. Requesting first to review the policy details and subsequently choosing to give a limited statement focused on specific events may be options to explore.
If you do proceed to give a statement, your attorney should be present.
How to Prepare for the Recorded Statement
To properly prepare for a recorded statement with an insurance company, there are several steps you should take.
Review Any Relevant Documentation
Review any documents related to your claim, including the auto insurance policy, medical records, photographs, repair estimates, or other evidence that supports your statement. Ensure your recollection of events is consistent with written records.
Prepare Your Statement Ahead of Time
Draft an outline of the key details surrounding your claim. Practice your statement out loud to identify any areas that need clarification or require additional details. Prepare for follow-up questions the insurance representative may ask. Rehearsing your statement will help you provide clear, concise responses during the actual interview.
Dress and Speak Professionally
Present yourself in a professional manner. Dress in formal, conservative attire and avoid casual language, excessive “ums” and “likes.” Remain polite but straightforward in your responses.
Answer Only the Questions Asked
Do not provide extra, unnecessary details. Answer each question concisely and avoid speculation. Do not bring up new information the interviewer does not specifically ask about. Only discuss details directly relevant to the current claim.
What to Say and Not Say During the Recorded Statement
- Stick to the Facts. Only discuss the facts of the accident as you remember them. Do not speculate or make assumptions about what happened.
- Describe the Accident Clearly. Provide a clear and concise description of the accident. Include details such as the date, time, location, weather conditions, and any other relevant factors.
- Discuss Your Injuries. If you were injured, describe your injuries in detail. Discuss any medical treatment you have received and how your injuries have affected your daily life.
- Don’t Admit Fault. Even if you think you may have been at fault, do not admit this during the recorded statement. Fault is a legal determination that should be left to the professionals.
- Avoid Guesswork. If you don’t remember certain details, it’s better to say you don’t remember than to guess. Guessing can lead to inaccuracies that could affect your claim.
- Don’t Discuss Your Personal Life. Your personal life is not relevant to the claim. Avoid discussing things like your job, family, or financial situation.
Call Our Top Georgia Car Accident Lawyers Today!
Our team at The Weinstein Firm can help you pursue a car accident claim and negotiate with the insurance company for a settlement on your behalf. We have recovered over $30,000,000 for our clients.
We offer a free consultation for new clients, so call us at 770-HELP-NOW today to schedule your case review.
