New Jersey requires motor vehicle insurance to drive legally, but that doesn’t mean dealing with insurance companies after an accident is simple or straightforward. Here’s what you should keep in mind when working with your insurance company or someone else’s after a crash.
What to Say to Your Own Insurance Agent
It’s important to contact your insurance company after being involved in a motor vehicle accident. Whether you were or were not at fault, you may have additional benefits under your own policy that can help cover damages. When filing a claim, remember that insurance companies are least likely to be cooperative if they believe they’ll have to pay a claim, even if they’re your own insurance provider.
What to Say (And Not Say) to Another Person’s Insurance Agent
You’ll likely receive a call from your insurance company to answer a few questions, and you’ll need to cooperate. However, you don’t have to talk to the other side’s insurance company, and doing so may not be in your best interest. They may try to coerce you into saying something that incriminates you on record so they can try to prove the fault of the accident was yours and not their client.
More Tips on Talking to Car Insurance Companies
When dealing with a car insurance agent, take these guidelines to heart:
- Don’t say more than you have to. Steer clear of conjecture and try to discuss only the facts. If possible, answer only yes or no questions.
- Don’t try to guess to answer a question. If you aren’t able to remember what happened or don’t know the answer to a question being asked, simply say so. It’s okay to say “I don’t know.”
- Your insurance company may be working against you. They’re likely doing anything they can to keep from having to make a payment on your claim or the claim of someone else. If this means painting you as the at-fault party, they may do so and use your statements against you.
- Let your lawyer handle it. You can work in tandem with your attorney to deal with insurance agents, allowing them to become a buffer between you and the insurance company.
Injured in a Motor Vehicle Crash? Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Attorney Now
Being hurt in a car accident can be a terrifying experience for you and your loved ones. Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of your vulnerability. Hubert Criminal Defense & Injury Law can help protect your rights. Call now for your appointment at 856-384-6553.