Do you have to speak to the other person’s insurance company after an auto accident in Lutz, FL? No, you don’t. There is no law in Florida requiring you to make a written or recorded statement to an insurance provider. In fact, making a statement to an insurance company before you speak to an attorney could be a big mistake.
If you become injured in a car accident in Lutz, FL, that was caused by the negligent actions of another driver, the steps you take after an accident can have a big impact on how much compensation you’ll be able to collect for your injuries. That’s why it’s such a good idea to consult with a Lutz, FL personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident. A personal injury attorney can help you avoid mistakes that could significantly reduce the amount of compensation you’ll be able to recover for your accident injuries.
Should You Speak to the Other Person’s Insurance Company After a Car Accident in Lutz, FL?
After you file a personal injury claim, the at-fault driver’s insurance company will probably request a written or recorded statement pertaining to the accident as well as the injuries you suffered. They may tell you that:
- You are required by law to provide a statement.
- A statement is necessary to process your claim.
- Providing a statement will help you get your settlement faster.
Don’t believe them.
Insurance companies are in business to make a profit. The less they have to pay out in claims, the more money they make off premiums. This gives the insurance company the incentive to deny a claim whenever possible. A statement is one tool they use to accomplish this goal.
The real reason they want your statement is to look for inconsistencies in the statement you’ve provided vs. the previous statements you’ve made to police and others. They hope to use this information to reduce the amount of compensation they’ll have to pay you for your injuries.
Providing a Statement Could Be a Big Mistake
Your statement could have serious, unintended consequences for your accident claim. Some of the common mistakes people often make when giving a statement to an insurance company include:
- Admitting fault for the accident
- Downplaying the severity of their injuries
- Inaccurately describing the scope and extent of their injuries
- Speculating about the causes of the accident
This is why most personal injury attorneys advise their clients against making a statement to the other party’s insurance company after their accident. Anything you say after the accident can be used against you by an insurance company. This not only includes statements to the insurance company, but also comments you make to friends, co-workers, and on social media.
Florida Law Says You Don’t Have to Speak to the Other Person’s Insurance Company After a Car Accident in Lutz, FL
As stated above, there is no law requiring you to provide a statement to the other driver’s insurance company. There are many good reasons why you shouldn’t.
What Should I Say if the Insurance Company Calls Me?
Insurance company representatives are usually friendly and courteous when they ask you to make a recorded statement. Be polite when declining their request but hold your ground if they start to apply pressure. You don’t have to explain why you don’t want to provide a statement. You can simply tell them that your attorney advises against it.
Do I Have to Give a Statement to My Own Insurance Company?
In some instances, you may have to provide a statement to your own insurance company if your policy requires you to do so. Check the terms of your policy to determine if providing a statement is actually a requirement.
Speak With Lutz, FL Personal Injury Attorney Tania Clark Before You Speak To An Insurance Company
Don’t make the mistake of speaking to an insurance company before you speak to an attorney. If you’ve been injured in a Lutz, FL accident that was caused by the careless actions of another driver, Lutz, FL auto accident attorney Tania Clark is here to help you deal with the other side’s insurance company. Tania can help you avoid any mistakes that could impact the total compensation you are owed for the damages caused by your accident-related accidents.
Tania Clark and TLC Trial Team have helped victims injured in a wide range of auto accidents in Lutz and surrounding communities. Tania’s legal expertise and dedication have enabled her to recover millions in settlements for her clients. This includes $750,000 for a client who required neck and back surgery after a rear end accident on Van Dyke Rd. in Lutz, FL.
Don’t wait to seek legal representation after an auto accident in Lutz, FL. Get in touch with Tania Clark and TLC Trial Team today. You can contact us through our website or call us at (813) 406-4460 to schedule a free initial consultation with a leading Lutz, FL personal injury attorney.
