Question:
I WAS INVOLVED IN A CAR ACCIDENT AND HAVE BEEN CONTACTED BY THE OTHER PERSON'S INSURANCE COMPANY. SHOULD I SPEAK TO THEM?
Answer By Attorney Keith Taylor:
Of course you should contact your own insurance company as soon as practically possible following an accident. You may be contacted by the insurance company for the other person involved in the accident, which may also be the same company as your insurer, so don't be confused. The other insurance company could contact you for a number of reasons. First, they may have liability for the damage to your vehicle, and this would be covered under the other person's Property Damage insurance. Typically, it is normal to have discussions with the Property Damage adjuster regarding repair of your vehicle and rental. You may also be contacted by an adjuster under the other person's Bodily Injury Liability insurance policy. Typically, you should not speak with this person until you have consulted with an attorney regarding your rights. Many times, this Bodily Injury adjuster will want to 'take your statement' about the crash, and will most often request to record that statement. There is no requirement that you speak with this adjuster, and most of the time, you should wait to do so until you have discussed your case and injuries with a qualified attorney. Likewise, you should not sign any forms or submit anything to the other party's insurance company related to your injuries or medical treatment until you have consulted with an attorney familiar with handling these types of cases.
Understand, however, that under you own policy of insurance, you must 'cooperate' with your company, which may include signing forms and giving a statement.
Insurance law is very complicated, so it is important that you meet with an experienced Personal Injury Lawyer as soon as possible after your accident to discuss your case; your rights and responsibilities. To learn more about Automobile Accidents or Personal Injury, visit our website at www.KeithTaylorLaw.com.
