If you were recently involved in any kind of motor vehicle accident, you likely have many questions about the insurance procedures that follow. Most people hope to never have to use their vehicle insurance, and when the need arises, it is often difficult to understand how to proceed.
Drivers involved in accidents have many questions regarding how to handle claim issues after a crash. These questions range from determining fault to recovering money for car repairs and, in cases where injury occurred, payments for medical expenses. Here are three tips that can be useful for handling insurance issues after a car accident:
1. Do not overshare information
Most people know that they should never admit fault after an auto accident. However, in today’s digital environment, many people are unaware that sharing more personal information than is absolutely necessary could put them at risk. The Colorado state Division of Insurance issued a consumer advisory that recommends you simply provide the other driver with your name and your auto insurance information. It advises against giving information such as your driver’s license number, your personal phone number and your home address.
2. Never talk to the other side’s insurance company
You are not required to give an oral statement to the other driver’s insurance company; in fact, you should not do so. If an insurance adjuster for the other driver calls you, politely refuse to discuss the matter with them. The other driver’s insurance company does not have your best interests in mind, and there is no benefit to you in speaking to them. In fact, it could actually harm your case.
3. Do not avoid an attorney for fear of costs
Particularly if you were injured in a crash, you should not avoid speaking with a personal injury attorney for a consultation on your case. Personal injury attorneys often work on a contingency basis, which means you do not have to pay anything upfront to move your case forward. The attorney will recoup his or her fees once a verdict or settlement in your case is reached. Therefore, you need not worry about having to find the money to pay the attorney to begin the process of seeking assistance with your insurance difficulties.
An attorney is also especially important if the other driver was negligent in the accident. An attorney can research and investigate the circumstances of the crash to defend you and help you recover any compensation you may be entitled to.