Should I Talk to the Insurance Company After a Car Accident in Texas?
Your phone rings a few days after your accident.
It's the insurance company.
They want to know what happened, how you're feeling, and whether you're willing to answer some questions.
So what should you do?
You may need to communicate with an insurance company during the claims process. But that doesn't mean you have to immediately answer every question you're asked without understanding what you're being asked or why.
Here's what Texas accident victims should know.
What does an insurance adjuster do after a car accident?
An insurance adjuster investigates the accident and claim on behalf of an insurance company.
They may review vehicle damage, police reports, witness statements, medical information, and other details surrounding the accident.
That doesn't automatically make an insurance adjuster the enemy.
But it's important to remember that the adjuster works for the insurance company.
What should I say to an insurance adjuster after a car accident?
Keep it simple and stick to information you know is accurate.
You may provide basic information such as your name, contact information, the date and location of the accident, and factual information about what occurred.
If you don't know the answer to something, don't guess.
It's perfectly okay to say you don't know.
What should I NOT say after a car accident?
Be careful about making assumptions or definitive statements before you have all the information.
For example:
“I'm fine.”
You may still be evaluating how you're feeling after the accident.
“It was probably partly my fault.”
Don't speculate about responsibility when you don't know exactly what happened.
You should also avoid guessing about speed, distance, timing, or other details you don't clearly remember.
Being accurate is more important than having an immediate answer for every question.
Should I give a recorded statement after a car accident?
If an insurance company asks for a recorded statement, understand who is requesting it and why before agreeing.
If it's your own insurance company, your policy may require you to cooperate with its investigation.
If another driver's insurance company is requesting a recorded statement, the situation can be different.
Before agreeing, you can ask:
Is this statement required?
Will this conversation be recorded?
How will my statement be used?
Can I respond after reviewing the request?
If you're uncomfortable or don't understand what you're being asked to do, consider getting guidance first.
Should I accept the first insurance settlement after a car accident?
You don't necessarily have to accept a settlement simply because an insurance company offers one.
Before agreeing to anything, make sure you understand what the settlement covers and whether accepting it could affect your ability to seek additional compensation later.
Consider whether you know the full extent of your:
Medical expenses
Future medical treatment
Lost wages
Vehicle damage
Other accident-related expenses
Once you understand the bigger picture, you can make a more informed decision.
What if the insurance company denies my accident claim?
A denied claim doesn't necessarily mean the process is over.
Ask why the claim was denied and request an explanation.
There may be additional evidence you can provide, insurance coverage you haven't considered, or other options available depending on your situation.
How long does an insurance company have to respond to a claim in Texas?
Texas has rules governing how insurance companies handle claims.
Generally, an insurance company has 15 business days to acknowledge receiving a claim. After receiving the information it needs to evaluate the claim, it generally has another 15 business days to decide whether it will accept or reject the claim, although extensions and exceptions may apply.
If you're having difficulty getting answers from an insurance company, don't be afraid to ask questions.
When should I talk to a lawyer after a car accident?
You may want to consider speaking with an attorney if you're dealing with serious injuries, substantial medical bills, lost wages, disputed fault, or problems with an insurance company.
But you don't have to immediately choose the first attorney you see advertised.
Understanding your situation first can help you make a better decision about what comes next.
Can I talk to someone for free before choosing a car accident lawyer?
Yes.
That's exactly why Accident Advocate Network exists.
We're not a law firm.
We're a free resource for accident victims who aren't sure what they're supposed to do next.
Tell us what happened. Ask your questions. Let us help you understand the process.
If your situation may require an attorney, we can provide information about trusted attorneys so you can decide who you want to work with.
Our advocacy service costs you nothing.
Get Free Help After an Accident
An accident can suddenly leave you dealing with insurance companies, medical appointments, car repairs, missed work, and questions you never expected to have.
You don't have to understand the entire process on day one.
Accident Advocate Network helps Texas accident victims understand what comes next at no cost.
Before you choose a lawyer or try to navigate the process alone, talk to a free accident advocate.
Accident Advocate Network is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Information provided is for general educational purposes only.
Comments