If you have recently been involved in a car accident and have been contacted by the other driver’s insurance company, you may wonder whether you should speak to them. Please continue reading to learn how you should handle this situation and why connecting with a trusted New York City Personal Injury Attorney is in your best interest.
Do I Have to Speak to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?
Generally, you are under no legal obligation to talk to the other driver’s insurance company. After the accident, the other driver’s insurance company will likely send an insurance adjuster to speak to you. Although they may initially appear friendly, they don’t have your best interest at heart. They will approach you quickly after the accident to take advantage of your vulnerable position in which you are unaware of the full extent of your damages. Their primary goal is to pay out as little money as possible.
During your discussion, they will continually seek ways to disprove or dismiss your claim. As such, you should refrain from speaking to the other driver’s insurance company. If you do choose to speak to the other driver’s insurance representative, stick to the facts and only answer what is asked. You should avoid elaborating you can even respond with a simple yes or no answer. Refrain from speculating anything regarding the circumstances of the collision. If they ask to record the conversation, you should decline. Statements you make to the insurance adjuster can be used against you later, jeopardizing your case if you recall things differently later or misspeak.
Should I Consult an Attorney?
When dealing with insurance adjusters, it’s crucial to consult an experienced attorney. Speaking to an insurance adjuster without any legal advice from an attorney can result in various consequences, including hindering your ability to recover your rightful compensation. Insurance adjusters are trained experts at fighting claims and will do whatever they can to weaken your case or deny your claim. Having quality legal representation can level the playing field by protecting your interests. Without adequate legal counsel, you won’t understand your rights and could say something that could jeopardize your case. An attorney can help you navigate the claims process and use their negotiation skills to maximize your compensation award.
At Swerling Law, we are prepared to help you fight for the best possible outcome. Connect with a dedicated New York City personal injury attorney today to learn more about how we can guide you through each step of the claims process and attain the justice you deserve.
