When an accident happens, one of the first things to occur afterward is the insurance company will contact the claimant to talk about the accident. The contact usually comes in the form of a phone call to ask about the details of what happened before, during, and after the accident. Contact the accident victim seems like such a basic part of the claims process that many people never question it or refuse. However, the insurance company’s goal by contacting you is to gather information that it can use to deny or limit the payout of your claim.
The insurance adjuster for the other party may tell you that you must cooperate or your claim will be denied. However, this doesn’t mean you must give your statement to the other party’s insurance company without first consulting with an attorney. You have the right to hire an attorney to limit contact with the other adjuster.
If you have been injured in a car accident, we strongly suggest you contact the Erie car accident attorneys of The Travis Law Firm at (800) 401-2066 before you discuss your accident with the insurance adjuster for the other party. We offer free legal consultations for accident victims and their families so they can get the facts about their legal options from a trusted source who has their best interest at the top of the priority list.
What Do You Need to Know About That Insurance Adjuster?
Common mistakes accident victims make after an accident include the following:
- Signing A Medical Records Release – This is a common mistake because it not only gives the insurance company access to records about your accident but also records related to your medical history. The insurance company may try to use pre-existing conditions or a prior injury to limit your claim even if it has nothing to do with the current injury. When you work with an attorney, your attorney only sends relevant medical records to the insurance company as part of your demand for settlement.
- Signing A General Release – A general release usually prevents you from claiming any further compensation in the accident. You should never sign one until you have spoken with an Erie car accident attorney. Accident victims often need the money and fail to think about the long-term impact of signing a release too soon. If you sign a release too early, you may not be aware of the full extent of your injury, and you will be responsible for any future medical costs and other damages.
- Discussing A Claim on Social Media – Insurance companies use information on Facebook, Twitter, and other social networks against you in court. These posts are usually admissible and can hurt your claim. It’s best not to talk about your accident or injury on social media, and you should never talk about the case.
Call an Erie Car Accident Attorney for Help
Because the average person isn’t aware of what an insurance company does during the claims process, it is important for an accident victim to work with an experienced Erie car accident attorney. We provide sound legal advice to protect your best interest to prevent a loss or reduction of compensation. The insurance company has experienced professionals working to protect it. You deserve to have a team of legal professionals working on your behalf to protect you and your family.
Contact The Travis Law Firm toll-free at (800) 401-2066 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Erie car accident lawyer.