The other driver’s insurance company may be calling to gather information about the accident. They want to confirm details about what happened, assess the extent of your injuries, and determine liability. Their goal is to protect their own financial interests, often by finding ways to minimize or deny your claim.
Anything you say to them could be used against you. They may try to get you to admit fault, downplay your injuries, or agree to a quick settlement that may not cover all your losses. Be cautious about providing any information without understanding your rights.
An Atlanta car accident lawyer works closely with their clients to ensure you remain protected through this process, and that often means handling the other insurance companies for you.
They Want Your Information and for You to Mess Up
Why is that insurance company calling you? There is one key reason they do so. They want you to say something–anything–that could allow them to shift at least some of the blame for the car accident to you because by doing that, they may be able to reduce what they pay you in compensation.
It is not uncommon for the insurance company to call to verify information. They often start up very friendly and even very apologetic to you that you are going through this. They may make statements like they want to “make sure you get your claim” or “get your claim settled fast.”
The key thing to remember here is that their job is not to meet your needs but rather to settle your claim for less than what you are owed. That saves them money.
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What Not to Say to an Insurance Company
When a liability insurance company contacts you after an accident, it’s important to remember that their primary goal is to protect their bottom line, not to help you. Even if the adjuster appears friendly or cooperative, their objective is often to gather information that can reduce or deny your claim. To avoid jeopardizing your case, here are some key things to avoid saying:
- Admitting fault: Insurance adjusters may try to get you to accept responsibility for the accident, even partially.
- Discussing medical history: Sharing details about pre-existing conditions can lead to claims that your injuries are unrelated to the accident.
- Downplaying your claim: Adjusters may suggest that the amount you’re seeking is excessive or unwarranted.
- Rushing a settlement: You may feel pressured to settle quickly, often for less than your claim is worth.
- Contradicting yourself: They may attempt to get you to make inconsistent statements that undermine your credibility.
- Admitting distractions: Acknowledging that you were on your phone or otherwise distracted could be used to assign blame.
- Discussing substance use: Mentioning prescription medications or alcohol, even if unrelated to the crash, could be used against you.
- Invalidating injuries: Adjusters may argue that your injuries or claims are exaggerated or not covered under the policy.
Insurance companies use these strategies to limit payouts, even in cases where evidence, such as a police report, supports your claim. Remaining cautious and limiting what you share with an insurance adjuster can help protect your rights.
If you are unsure how to handle communication with the insurance company, seeking guidance from a qualified legal professional can help ensure that your case is not compromised.
What to Do if the Insurance Company Wants to Talk to You
If the insurance company wants to talk to you after an accident, you should proceed cautiously. You are not required to provide a statement or answer their questions immediately, and anything you say could potentially be used to reduce or deny your claim.
The best approach is to inform the insurance company that your case is being handled by legal representation, if applicable. This directs their inquiries through the proper channels and ensures your rights are protected. If you don’t have legal representation, avoid providing detailed information or agreeing to any settlements before fully understanding your options.
Protect Yourself
If you have not spoken to an injury attorney yet, and the insurance company is requesting information from you, do not feel as though you have to speak to them. Here are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Be polite to the insurance company. The more aggressive you are, the more aggressive they will be.
- Provide only facts. Do not allow them to get you to talk about the incident with anything but what you have already told the police.
- Do not speculate on what occurred even if they ask you to. They may say, “So, what do you think is the reason the other driver hit you?”
- Get all of their information, including the adjuster’s name as well as phone number, and any other details. Be sure to ask about anyone else who may be monitoring the call.
- You can refuse to have your information recorded. If they ask if they can record the call, tell them no.
- Do not discuss your injuries with them. Even if you feel fine, do not communicate this information.
- Never provide any information as a “guess,” such as “I am guessing I will need more treatment.”
Provide the least amount of information possible. Doing so protects you. We do not recommend talking to insurance companies on your own in any situation.
It is simply often a way for insurance companies to be unfair to you about the compensation owed. A law firm with reputable case results should provide you with legal support.
Let Us Provide You With a Free Consultation Now
Let the phone go to voicemail if the other driver’s insurance company calls. Direct communication with them can lead to misunderstandings or missteps that may harm your case. Instead, focus on protecting your rights by seeking professional guidance.
Contact the John Foy & Associates team for a free consultation. With experienced guidance, you can learn exactly what to do—and what to avoid—when dealing with insurance adjusters. Gaining prompt legal support helps minimize risks, protects your claim, and ensures you are fully informed about your options moving forward.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form