Should I Talk to the Other Party’s Insurance Company?

A car accident can be very traumatic. Even if no one is hurt, you may be disoriented and confused, unsure what to do next. There are some things you should be sure to do after being involved in a car accident:

• Get names, insurance information, license numbers, and contact information for all parties involved, and any potential witnesses
• Seek medical attention immediately if necessary
• Take photographs if possible
• Get names, insurance information, license numbers, and contact information for all parties involved, and any potential witnesses
• If medical attention is received, obtain a detailed oral report from the doctor and a copy of the treatment record
• Do not speak to any other party’s insurance adjustor

The last item is crucial if you are going to seek compensation for your injuries–or avoid paying for someone else’s. Insurance companies are businesses, and the job of an adjuster is to ensure that the company he or she represents pays you and others the least amount of money possible. It’s not uncommon for the other party’s insurance company to contact you soon after the accident, trying to get a recorded or written statement from you that they can use to justify paying less. It is generally best to avoid speaking to them. You may not realize it, but even innocuous statements you make could harm you. The experienced car accident attorneys at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. can give you advice to ensure that you have the best odds of receiving the compensation you deserve.

There is no law requiring you to speak with the other party’s insurance company. Insurance companies build their profits one accident at a time, and they are very familiar with how to make sure that they pay you the smallest amount possible. If possible, they will get you to take responsibility for the accident. If not, they may offer you a settlement right away. The settlement may seem fair and reasonable, but rest assured that they would not offer it if it did not seem a bargain to them. Remember that you have to pay for medical treatment, not just today, but in the future, and you should consider what lost wages you may suffer due to the ongoing injury.  It is suggested that you do not accept a settlement before consulting an attorney. Typically, a free initial consultation can give you an idea whether you are getting a fair offer from the insurance company.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please contact the experienced Maryland auto accident attorneys at Chaikin Sherman Cammarata Siegel P.C. in Washington, D.C. today.