Should You Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company After an Accident?

Car accidents are stressful. One second, everything is normal. The next, you’re dealing with a wrecked car, possible injuries, and a whirlwind of phone calls. Then, out of nowhere, the other driver’s insurance company calls you. Should you answer? Should you talk to them? Before you say anything, you might want to consult with a car accident lawyer. Let’s break it down.

Why is the other driver’s insurance company calling you?

It’s not just a friendly check-in. The other driver’s insurer has one goal – to protect their bottom line. They want to get information from you that could help them reduce the amount of money they have to pay.

They might ask for details about the accident and your injuries or even offer a quick settlement. Sounds helpful, right? Not necessarily. Anything you say – no matter how innocent – could be twisted to reduce your claim.

Insurance adjusters are skilled at what they do. They sound like police, even sympathetic, but make no mistake: their job is to save their company money. If they can get you to downplay your injuries or accept partial fault, they will. That’s why you need to be extremely cautious about what you say  – if you talk to them at all.

Do you have to talk to them?

No. Plain and simple. You are under no legal obligation to speak with the other driver’s insurance company. You do need to report the accident to your own insurer and cooperate with the police.

One thing to be especially careful about: recorded statements. Insurance companies love to ask for them, but you are not required to give one. A recorded statement can be used against you later, so it’s best to avoid it and speak to your attorney.

Why talking to them can be risky

There are plenty of ways a conversation with the other driver’s insurance can backfire:

• They could try to pin more blame on you.
• They might downplay your injuries, making it harder to get fair compensation.
• They could pressure you into accepting a lowball settlement.
• They may twist your words to weaken your case.

Here’s something important: Once you accept a settlement, that’s it. You can’t go back later and ask for more money, even if your injuries turn out to be worse than you thought. That’s why insurance companies push quick settlements before you even know the full extent of your damages.

Is there ever a time to talk to them?

No, you don’t need to speak to the other party’s insurance provider – even if you are filing a claim. If they call you and you answer, you can politely instruct them to get the information they need from your insurance provider or your attorney. It’s best to let your lawyer handle these communications to prevent anything you say from being twisted and used against you.

How a car accident lawyer can help

A car accident lawyer acts as your shield. Dealing with insurance companies alone is like playing poker against a pro when you don’t even know the rules. They have teams of experts working to reduce your claim – you should have someone fighting for you, too.

A lawyer can:

• Handle all communication with insurers so you don’t have to.
• Prevent you from saying things that could hurt your case.
• Collect evidence to strengthen your claim.
• Negotiate for a fair settlement that actually covers your expenses, including medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and more.

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. Many also offer free consultations, so there’s no risk in reaching out.

How to protect yourself

If the other driver’s insurance company calls you, here’s what to do:

1. Stay calm but firm. Don’t be rude, but don’t engage either. Direct them to speak to your attorney.
2. Take notes. Write down who called, their position, and their contact info.
3. Avoid giving a recorded statement. This is crucial. A simple “I’m not comfortable providing a recorded statement” is enough.
4. Inform your own insurance company. Let them know you were contacted.
5. Call a lawyer. Before making any further moves, get legal advice. A car accident lawyer can help protect your claim.

Taking these steps will help safeguard your rights and ensure you don’t unintentionally jeopardize your case.

Know your rights and get the legal help you deserve

It’s tempting to just pick up the phone and cooperate, especially when the insurance adjuster sounds nice. But remember: they are not on your side. You don’t have to speak to them, and in most cases, it’s better if you don’t.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what to do, don’t go through this alone. A lawyer can make sure you don’t get taken advantage of and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Need help? Reach out to Wagner Workers Compensation & Personal Injury Lawyers.  Complete our contact form today to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to guide you through the process and fight for your rights.