The Law Offices of Chaikin and Sherman, P.C.
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After a Car Accident, Should I Speak to the Other Party's Insurance Company?
Washington, D.C., Virginia, & Maryland
A car accident is a very traumatic event. Even when no one is hurt, it can still be shocking, and you may not know what to do following the accident. There are some very basic things you should do after being involved in a car accident:
- Seek medical attention if necessary
- If possible, take photographs
- Get the names and contact information for all parties involved, as well as any potential witnesses
- If medical attention is received, obtain a detailed oral report from the doctor
- Do not speak to any other party's insurance adjustor
It is imperative that you do not speak to the insurance company representing the other party involved.
Insurance companies are businesses. They are looking to ensure that they pay you the least amount of money possible. Very often after a car accident the other party's insurance company will try to get a recorded or written statement from you. You should not agree to speak to them. You may not realize how the statements you make could harm you, but they often do. Only the experienced car accident attorneys at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. can ensure that you are not hindered in receiving the compensation you deserve by any statements you make.
You are not obligated by law to speak with the other party's insurance company. Insurance companies make their profits by paying out the least possible amount in personal injury cases, and they are very familiar with how to make sure that they pay you the least possible amount. They use varying tactics and techniques to minimize their payment to you. One of the most commonly seen of these techniques is for the insurance company to offer you an amount of money right away. Even if the number they propose seems fair to you then, remember that your medical treatment and lost wages may not be covered. Do not accept anything before consulting an attorney. Usually the amount offered to you by an insurance company soon after the collision is less than the amount you are entitled to.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please contact the experienced Maryland auto accident attorneys at Chaikin Sherman Cammarata Siegel P.C. in Washington, D.C. today.
