After an accident, the insurance company will surely ask for a recorded statement. Now, this may seem simple enough. But, you should still answer “no” when being asked to make a recorded statement immediately after an accident, especially without an attorney’s representation.
Consequences
It is important to understand that although the insurance company requesting the statement may seem friendly, their primary goal is to minimize your injuries and ultimately, the amount of money they compensate you with. The people that take these statements have a lot of experience. They know what questions to ask and know how to use your words against you. Even though you may not be in court or under oath, the insurance company can still use your recorded statement against you.
Your own insurance company may ask you to make a recorded statement and you may be required to make one. If that is the case, you should still either consult an attorney or wait until the shock has worn off and/ or after your injuries have fully appeared or you’ve seen a doctor so you can give a detailed statement. But, you should not make a statement to the other insurance company. You have no duty to them to disclose anything about the accident.
How The Recorded Statement Can Hurt Your Case
Most of the time after an accident, your injuries will not fully appear until days later. If a claim adjuster from an insurance company contacts you immediately after an accident, your injuries may have not fully appeared. You then make a recorded statement that only partially describes your injuries. If an injury shows up days later, compensation may be denied because you did not first describe that injury. Do not ever feel pressured to make a recorded statement.
Best Plan Of Action
Always be kind and respectful when dealing with a claims adjuster. They are just doing their job. But, you should remember that a recorded statement made to them can hurt your case. It is best to either 1) Not make a statement until you are fully informed as to your injuries or 2) Contact a Personal Injury Attorney that can help you navigate through the recorded statement process.
Our firm offers a FREE consultation and you can call us anytime to discuss a recorded statement. We would be happy to assist you as one of our primary goals is to make sure that individuals that have been involved in accidents are getting the compensation they deserve. We are available 24/7 at (727) 845-5972. Be safe everyone!
Nicolette R. Nicoletti
Managing Partner
Nicolette R. Nicoletti is the founder and managing partner of the Nicoletti Accident Injury Lawyers. She was born and raised in New Port Richey, Florida. Nicolette attended Genesis Preparatory School and graduated salutatorian of her class. She then went onto Saint Leo University for her undergraduate education. She graduated magna cum laude from the Honors Program with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. While at Saint Leo University, Nicolette was President of Pi Sigma Alpha (Political Science Honor Society), Secretary of Alpha Phi Sigma (Criminal Justice Honor Society), and an active member of Delta Epsilon Sigma (National Scholastic Honor Society).
Author's Bio