Some car insurance providers go to extreme lengths to find a reason to deny a claim. Are you ready to file a claim for your recent auto accident?
USA Today offers insight for talking with insurance companies after auto accidents. Think twice before saying something to your agent that could jeopardize your right to fair compensation.
Do not place blame
Even if you feel responsible for the accident, do not admit fault to your agent. Uncontrollable circumstances may have contributed to what happened, or the other driver may bear responsibility. Let an investigation and a police report determine what happened and how responsible all parties are for what transpired.
Do not guess
When asked questions about the accident, do not be afraid to say, “I do not know.” Answer inquires as well as you can, but do not guess or offer extra details. Your insurance provider may not increase your rates if you do not have all the facts, but the same does not apply if you offer vague answers or outright untruths.
Provide a doctor’s report
Even if you feel fine after your accident, you could have soft-tissue injuries that may take days to reveal themselves. Rather than tell your insurance provider that you feel OK, have a physician look you over to determine your state of health.
If you have injuries, have your doctor thoroughly document them to help build your claim (or a potential legal case). Receiving fair compensation requires this evidence.
Rather than feel that you cannot trust your insurance agent, exercise caution instead. Your words can either help your claim or hinder it.