Available 24/7 • More Than 31 Years Experience • Serving Louisville and Lexington
call white502-253-9110
sub-hero

Blog

At Wilt Injury Lawyers, we take care of our clients like we take care of our family. Schedule a free consultation with us today so you can get the help you deserve.

Should I Speak with the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?

Following a car accident in Louisville, many wonder whether they should communicate directly with the other driver’s insurance company. Generally, it’s wise to avoid this. Directly engaging with the other driver’s insurer can place you at a disadvantage, as insurers often aim to limit or deny claims by scrutinizing statements for inconsistencies. Instead, consult a reputable Louisville car accident attorney for guidance on what to say and to whom.

Below is some information on why it is advisable to avoid interactions with the other driver’s insurance company and what claimants should do instead.

First, it’s essential to understand that there’s no legal requirement to speak with another driver’s insurer. While providing basic information and identifying details helps start the claim process, giving in-depth descriptions of the accident or injuries can be a mistake.

Speaking with a third-party insurer can inadvertently give them material to weaken or deny a claim. To safeguard rights to compensation and the integrity of the claim, it is advisable to consider these best practices.

You’re Not Obligated to Give a Recorded Statement

One of the most common insurance adjuster requests is a recorded statement. While the victims may be required to cooperate with the investigations, they are not obligated to record statements. Insurers might present this as a routine step, but they often seek inconsistencies or admissions that they can use against the claimant later. 

Note that even casual comments can be twisted out of context to minimize one’s claim or place undue blame on them. It is advisable to decline politely to give a recorded statement and refer them to our experienced Louisville car accident lawyer.

Avoid Discussing Fault

It may feel natural to discuss the accident, but any discussion about fault should be avoided. Even a simple, offhand comment like, “I didn’t see them coming,” could be misconstrued as an admission of fault.

It is worth noting that insurance adjusters are skilled at extracting information that could weaken a claim, and even an innocent statement may later be used to argue that the victim was partially or fully responsible. Let the investigation, rather than casual remarks, determine liability.

Be Cautious with Social Media

Social media can unintentionally affect a car accident claim, as insurance companies may review victims’ posts for evidence to dispute the claim. For instance, photos or updates that suggest physical activity or a positive mood might be used to downplay any injuries reported. As a precaution, please avoid posting any content related to the accident, the injuries, or even general social activities that could misrepresent one’s physical state.

Keep Detailed Records of Communications with the Insurance Company

If a car accident victim in Louisville has to interact with the other driver’s insurance company, they should maintain a meticulous record of all conversations, emails, and messages. Notes about each discussion and copies of emails or messages can protect them if the insurer tries to mischaracterize what was said. This documentation becomes invaluable should any disputes arise.

Always Consult Our Louisville Car Accident Lawyers First

Before making any decisions, it is advisable to contact a lawyer. An attorney can handle communications with the insurer on the individual’s behalf, ensuring their interests are protected at every step. They can also offer advice on specific questions or actions and help to avoid statements that might negatively impact the claim.

Wilt Injury Lawyers Can Handle Communication on Your Behalf

When you have a Louisville car accident lawyer on your side, they will notify the insurance company that you have an advocate who will handle all the communications on your behalf. Understandably, insurance companies are entitled to details, and in many cases, an attorney can better provide this information without you having to speak with the other driver’s insurance company.

Wilt Injury Lawyers understand the tactics insurance companies often use to limit claim payouts. Contact us today for support and peace of mind as you focus on recovery.