When you are involved in an accident, the other driver’s insurance company may need to cover the damages you incurred due to their policyholder’s negligence. The driver will notify their insurer of the accident. And this is when tricks can begin.
Here are three of them.
1. Contact you
The other driver’s insurance company may contact you at the accident scene or later, depending on when they learn about the accident. Regardless of how friendly they are, you should avoid speaking with them.
They represent the other driver, which means they do not have your best interest. Anything you say to them can be used against you. They can ask leading questions to get details that can hurt your case.
2. Offer quick settlement
The first offer from insurance companies, in most cases, is usually unfair. Understandably, you may want to be done with the claim and continue with your life. However, accepting a quick settlement may be a mistake. You need time to assess the effects of the accident.
For instance, if you accept a settlement without adequate information about the severity of your injuries, you may cover some medical bills out of your own pocket.
You should work closely with specialists to assess your existing damages and potential future ones to determine just compensation.
3. Record your statements
Upon offering a settlement, you may need to talk to the other driver’s insurance company, but not necessarily because your team can handle it. However, if you do, they may want to record the discussion. You should not accept this. They may use the recording against you later if you change even a minor detail.
Insurance companies use these tactics to minimize or avoid payouts. If you are injured in an accident, it will help to get legal guidance to make the right moves.