Why You Should Be Cautious When Speaking to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
After a car accident in Alabama, you will likely be contacted by the other driver’s insurance company. Their adjusters may seem friendly, but their job is to minimize payouts and protect their company’s bottom line. If you say the wrong thing, they could twist your words to deny or undervalue your claim.
Before you speak with them, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the tactics insurers use to weaken your case. Below, we outline the dos and don’ts of handling insurance adjusters after an Alabama car accident and how an experienced attorney can help protect your compensation.
The Hidden Dangers of Speaking to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
Insurance companies are in the business of making money—not paying out claims. They will look for any excuse to deny or devalue your compensation. A seemingly harmless statement like, “They came out of nowhere,” can be used against you to suggest you were not paying attention and therefore at fault for the accident.
Since Alabama follows a pure contributory negligence rule, even being 1% at fault can bar you from recovering compensation. That’s why avoiding saying anything that could be interpreted as admitting fault is critical.
What You Should Do When Dealing with Insurance Companies
DO Notify Your Own Insurance Company
Your insurance policy likely requires you to report an accident within 24-48 hours. Failure to do so could result in a denied claim or policy cancellation.
DO Stick to Basic Facts
When speaking with any insurer, only provide basic information, such as:
- Your name and contact information
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- The names of involved parties and vehicle details
You are not required to discuss fault or injuries in detail.
DO Keep Records of All Communications
Keep track of all conversations, emails, and letters with the insurance company. Document:
- The date and time of the conversation
- The name of the adjuster
- A summary of what was discussed
This can be crucial evidence if a dispute arises about what was said.
DO Consult an Alabama Car Accident Attorney Before Making a Statement
If the other driver’s insurance company asks you for a recorded or written statement, speak to a lawyer first. Insurers are trained to ask leading questions to get you to say something that weakens your claim.
An experienced attorney can help you craft a truthful statement that doesn’t jeopardize your rights.
What You Should NOT Do When Dealing with the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
DON’T Admit Fault or Apologize
Even saying, “I’m sorry this happened,” can be misconstrued as admitting liability. Stick to the facts and let the evidence determine who is responsible.
DON’T Accept the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often make lowball settlement offers that do not fully cover medical expenses, lost wages, or future damages. Once you accept, you waive your right to pursue additional compensation.
DON’T Downplay Your Injuries
Never tell an insurance adjuster you are “fine” after an accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, take time to appear. If you later develop symptoms, the insurer may deny coverage by citing your initial statement.
DON’T Sign Anything Without Legal Review
The insurance company may ask you to sign a medical release or liability waiver. These documents can be used to:
- Access your full medical history and argue that pre-existing conditions caused your injuries
- Waive your right to future compensation
Always have a lawyer review any documents before signing.
DON’T Give a Recorded Statement Without Legal Advice
Insurers may ask you for a recorded statement, claiming it’s just a formality. However, these statements are often used to find inconsistencies in your story and undermine your credibility. Politely decline and inform them that your attorney will handle all communications.
How an Alabama Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Navigating insurance claims can be overwhelming, especially when adjusters are trained to minimize your payout. An experienced Alabama car accident attorney can:
- Handle all communications with the insurance company
- Investigate your accident to establish fault and liability
- Negotiate a fair settlement that covers all your damages
- File a lawsuit if the insurer refuses to offer reasonable compensation
At [Law Firm Name], we know the tactics insurance companies use to reduce claims, and we won’t let them take advantage of you. Our team is committed to securing the maximum compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been in a car accident in Alabama, do not talk to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting a lawyer. Let us protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call Collins Law, LLC today at 205-588-1411 for a free, no-obligation consultation, or fill out our online contact form to get started.
