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What Should You Say to the Insurance Company After a Car Crash?

Posted by Liz Delsa | Jan 16, 2025 | 0 Comments

After a car accident in Louisiana, you may find yourself dealing with the stress of injuries, medical bills, and questions from insurance companies. This situation can be overwhelming, especially if the accident was caused by someone else's negligence. Knowing what to say to the insurance company is important because it can affect the outcome of your claim. Below, Delsa Law Firm, LLC explains how you can handle conversations with insurance adjusters effectively while protecting your legal rights.

Report the Accident as Soon as Possible

After a car accident, one of your first steps should be notifying your own insurance company. Most policies require you to report an accident promptly. When you contact your insurer, stick to the basic facts of the incident. Share the time, date, location, and who was involved.

Don't Admit Fault or Speculate

Louisiana is a fault-based state when it comes to car accidents. This means the at-fault driver is responsible for covering damages. Because of this, insurance companies will closely examine what you say to look for reasons to deny or minimize your claim. Always be cautious and measured in your responses.

When speaking with an insurance adjuster, never admit fault, even if you think you made a mistake. This is because your compensation can potentially be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to you.

Stick to the facts you know for sure. If you don't know the answer to a question, it's okay to say so. Avoid guessing or assuming anything about the accident or the injuries you've sustained. Statements made during these conversations may later be used against you.

Be Careful When Discussing Injuries

In the days following an accident, you may not fully understand the extent of your injuries. It's common for certain injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, to appear days or even weeks later. If an insurance adjuster asks about your injuries, you should avoid giving detailed descriptions until you have been examined by a doctor.

You can say something like, “I'm still seeking medical treatment, and I don't yet know the full extent of my injuries.” This keeps the door open for you to report additional injuries later, which is crucial for receiving the full compensation you're entitled to.

Avoid Accepting a Quick Settlement

Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement soon after the accident, hoping you'll accept before realizing the full cost of your injuries and damages. While it may be tempting to take an early offer, doing so can be risky. These initial settlements are often far lower than what you might need to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident if the accident occurred on or after July 1, 2024. If the accident occurred before July 1, 2024, there is a one year deadline from the date of the accident. This gives you some time to fully understand the impact of the accident before agreeing to a settlement. Do not feel pressured to accept an offer before consulting with an accident lawyer who can help you assess the true value of your claim.

Request Communication in Writing

It's always a good idea to keep a record of your communication with insurance companies. If an adjuster contacts you by phone, follow up by asking for a summary of the conversation in writing. This ensures that there is no confusion about what was said and agreed upon.

Written communication can also prevent you from accidentally saying something that might hurt your claim. It's easier to review and revise your responses in writing, giving you better control over the information you share.

Don't Sign Anything Without Understanding It Fully

After an accident, an insurance company may ask you to sign documents such as medical release forms or settlement agreements. Be cautious about signing anything before fully understanding its implications. Signing a medical release, for example, might allow the insurance company to access your entire medical history, not just records related to the accident. This could give them a reason to argue that your injuries were pre-existing.

Settlement agreements often include language that waives your right to pursue further compensation. Once you sign, you won't be able to ask for more money, even if your medical bills end up being higher than expected.

Stay Polite But Firm

Dealing with an insurance adjuster can be frustrating, especially if you feel like they're not treating you fairly. Remember to stay polite, even if the adjuster seems pushy or dismissive. Losing your temper or becoming defensive can work against you. At the same time, remain firm about protecting your interests.

You are not obligated to answer every question or provide more information than necessary. If you feel like the conversation is becoming too intrusive or stressful, it's okay to let the adjuster know you'll get back to them after gathering more information. Taking a pause can help you avoid saying something that might harm your claim.

Contact a Slidell Louisiana Car Accident Lawyer

If you've been injured in a car accident in Slidell, Louisiana, caused by someone else's negligence, you may have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. Dealing with the claims process with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when you're focused on recovering. To fully understand your legal rights and options, consider contacting Delsa Law Firm, LLC. Reach out to Delsa Law Firm, LLC by calling (985) 882-1222 or contacting us online to set up a free, confidential consultation.

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