When you’re shaken up after a car accident, you probably want to talk about what happened. That said, the last person you should overshare with is someone who will likely be calling you soon: your insurance adjustor. An insurance adjustor may try to question you about the details of your crash, try to get you to admit fault, and otherwise attempt to lower your claim.
At Alderson Law, we understand the pressure that most of our clients feel to cooperate with insurers immediately after an accident. While you do have certain obligations to your insurance company, knowing what information to provide and when to talk to a Greenville car accident lawyer can protect your financial recovery and help you avoid mistakes that could reduce your compensation.
What to Share With Your Insurance After a Greenville Car Accident
Your insurance policy creates a contract with specific obligations after an accident. You must provide certain basic information to maintain your coverage and avoid potential policy violations. Most South Carolina policies require notification "as soon as practicable" after an accident. This doesn't mean you must call from the accident scene, but don't delay reporting for days or weeks.
Share these basic details during your initial call with the insurance company:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Names and contact information of other drivers involved
- Insurance information for all parties
- Police report number if available
- General description of property damage
- Names of any witnesses present
In general, stick to the facts when you’re on the phone with your insurance company and only provide the required information.
Three “Don’ts” When Sharing With Insurance
Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that go beyond your obligations. There are three important things you should avoid saying when speaking with insurers, as these can be used against you later on:
Don’t Give a Detailed Analysis
Don't speculate about who was at fault or discuss factors that may have contributed to the crash. Statements like "I should have been more careful" or "Maybe I was going too fast" can damage your claim.
Don't Discuss Your Injuries Extensively
Adrenaline and shock can delay the onset of symptoms. Instead of offering detailed medical information, simply state that you are experiencing discomfort or that you’ve sought medical attention.
Don’t Give Recorded Statements
While you must cooperate with your insurer's investigation, you are not typically required to provide a recorded statement immediately. These recordings can be used against you later if your recollection of events changes or you discover additional injuries.
Dealing With the Other Driver's Insurance Company
The other driver's insurance company will likely also contact you seeking information about the accident. When you’re on the phone with them:
- Provide only basic information. Give them your name, contact information, and insurance details. Refer all other questions to your Greenville car accident attorney.
- Never accept blame or apologize. Avoid statements like "I'm sorry" or "I didn't see the other car coming." These can be interpreted as admissions of fault even when you're simply being polite.
- Don't agree to recorded statements. The other driver's insurance company has no right to your recorded statement. Politely decline and explain that you'll communicate through your attorney or insurance company.
Remember that this insurer represents the other driver's interests, not yours. Their goal is to minimize their payout by getting you to accept fault or downplay your injuries.
When to Contact a Greenville Car Accident Attorney
Not every accident requires legal representation. However, Alderson Law may be able to assist you with your car accident case in Greenville if it involves any of the following:
- Serious injuries. If you or a loved one requires ongoing medical care, Ryan Alderson can fight to ensure your settlement accounts for the full extent of your damages.
- Disputed fault. South Carolina is a comparative negligence state, so your degree of fault can impact your overall settlement offer.
- Quick settlement offers. Early offers often undervalue your claim. A Greenville auto accident lawyer can assess whether the offer covers the full extent of your losses.
- Multiple parties involved. Multi-car pileups or commercial vehicle crashes can quickly become complicated. Alderson Law can help untangle liability and preserve your rights.
Our goal is to protect your fair recovery.