Working with the Insurance Company

If you are involved in an accident, one of the first people you will have to deal with is the insurance company. What you say can make or break your case. Here are a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to speaking with an agent either on the phone or in person.

Do

1. Consider speaking to an attorney before speaking to any insurance company.  If you are injured and are considering hiring an attorney to help you with your case, why talk to the insurance company when you are going to hire a lawyer to do that for you.

2. If you decide to contact your own insurance company, take a look at your policy before you pick up the phone. You will want to know what is covered and what is excluded. The more educated you are with regards to your policy, the better you will be able to understand your options for getting a rental car and other benefits that you may be entitled to.

3. Keep notes of all conversations you have with the insurance company. Be sure to write down the date and time you spoke with a representative, along with their name, job title and claim number if one is provided.

4. Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle. If you remember to do so, take pictures of the accident scene and the other vehicle as well.

5. Keep receipts of any monies you have to spend as the result of the accident. You may not be handing these over to an insurance agent, but they will be helpful to your attorney if you decide to file a personal injury claim.

Don’ts

1. Do not be talked into giving any type of statement in writing or otherwise on the record to any insurance company. There is no obligation for you to allow any insurance company to record your telephone conversation.

2. Never assume that the initial estimates or settlements you are offered are accurate. Get multiple damage estimates from multiple repair companies.  Don’t let an insurance company or over zealous repair company dictate where you get your car repaired.

3. Do not sign any type of waiver or release without first speaking to an attorney. Doing so without the advice of an attorney can potentially negate your ability to file a lawsuit should it become necessary.

4. DON’T ignore the time limits outlined in your policy. Your insurance coverage will only provide coverage if you follow the rules. You will be given only so much time to report the accident and file the claim(s). Make sure you are aware of the time frames as dictated by your coverage.  An experienced car accident lawyer can help you understand these important timelines.

5. NEVER assume that what the insurance company says is final. If you do not believe you are being treated fairly, you have options.

If you are involved in a car accident in Charlotte, reach out to our team of experienced attorneys. We will review the details of your crash and advise you of your legal options. We can help you deal with insurance agents, review documents and, when warranted, file a claim in court for damages.