One of the first things insurance adjusters want to do following a car accident is get you on the phone to give a recorded statement.  We get calls all the time from people asking if recorded statements should be given and if failing to give one can hurt their case. 

Our policy is to never give recorded statements and to always submit a written statement of facts.  You generally have no obligation to provide a recorded statement and refusing to give one should not impact your claim.  Remember, the insurance adjuster is not on your side.  Below is a brief explanation on why recorded statements should not be given following a car accident.   

It’s understandable that you might be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do after a car accident. One thing you should avoid, however, is giving a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster. Here’s why:

1. You might say something that could be taken out of context or used against you. It’s easy to get flustered or anxious after an accident, and you might accidentally say something that could be misconstrued or used against you in the claims process. It’s best to speak with an attorney before giving any kind of statement.
2. You might not have all the information. After an accident, it’s common for people to be in shock and not have a clear recollection of everything that happened. It’s important to have a clear understanding of what happened before giving a statement, and an attorney can help you gather all the necessary information.
3. The insurance adjuster’s goal is to minimize the payout. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask leading questions and try to get you to say something that could minimize the payout on your claim. An attorney can help protect your interests and ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
4. You have the right to have an attorney present. Under the law, you have the right to have an attorney present during any kind of statement or interview. It’s always a good idea to have an attorney present to protect your rights and interests.

In conclusion, it’s generally a good idea to avoid giving a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster after a car accident. Instead, seek the help of an experienced attorney who can protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.  Contact us now to discuss your claim.