No. Non. Nein. Nee. Nyet! It’s very important that you remember that you’re not required to speak with the other driver’s insurance company.
After a an auto accident, there’s a good chance that one of the first calls you may receive is from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Their claims adjuster will be pleasant and appear to be helpful. They may suggest that they just want to “clear up” some questions about the crash. To do this, they may inquire about how you’re feeling. They may also ask you to complete a written questionnaire or to agree to a recorded statement. They will tell you that it’s just “routine” and that it’s an “industry practice.”
But insurance adjusters are paid to protect their company’s resources. As such, they want to find information that could lessen your claim or bolster a claim that you were at least partially at fault. What information you provide to the at-fault driver’s insurance company may be used against you later.
If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you after a motor vehicle accident, inform their representative that you are not going to talk about the specifics of the accident.
So again, resist the urge to speak to the other driver’s insurance company after a car accident (unless you’re making a claim with them, which is discussed below).
Who Should I Speak to After an Auto Accident?
Michigan law states that you must “immediately” contact the police and file a police report if someone has been injured or killed or if the vehicle damage is more than $1,000. Report the accident within 24 hours of the accident. This is crucial to validate an accident claim and to expedite the insurance claim process.
You also must speak to the police at the accident scene so the officer can prepare a police report. A police report will document details of the accident. This will include a description of what happened and any environmental circumstances—like low light or visibility, inclement weather, or poor road conditions) that may have contributed to the accident. The police officer will also note any special circumstances, such as a hit and run. The report also has the vehicle identification number (VIN), driver’s contact information and license information, and what, if any, damage the vehicle sustained. Any citations given to the driver are also stated, as well as the driver’s known injuries. In addition, it’s noted whether the driver was tested for controlled substances or alcohol. The report also will list the names and insurance information of all passengers in both vehicles, a diagram of the accident scene, as well as photographs and videos of the damage and witness statements.
You’re also required to remain at the scene and exchange driver’s license number, insurance coverage details, and contact information. You should keep communication to a minimum and be aware of what you say at the scene.
If you’re involved in an incident that might involve coverage under your auto insurance policy, you must notify the insurance company and cooperate with their accident investigation.
It’s important that you avoid admitting fault at the scene.
What If I’m Making a Claim With the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?
If the other driver is at fault, you may make a third party car insurance claim directly with the other driver’s insurance company. As a result, you’ll need to speak with them and cooperate as they investigate. If you or others are seriously injured, the accident involves uninsured or underinsured coverage, or there’s significant property damage, speak with an experienced Michigan auto accident attorney.
Your attorney can deal with this claim and make certain you’re fairly compensated for serious injuries. They can provide documentation concerning your claimed losses, such as medical bills, related expenses, and lost income; and accident-related medical records only.
Takeaway
Remember that you shouldn’t talk to the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If their insurance adjuster continues to contact you, tell them to contact your insurance company (or your accident attorney) for additional information about the accident.
If you or a family member are involved in an auto accident in Michigan, you may be entitled to compensation for serious injuries. You need a reliable Michigan auto accident attorney that understands the Michigan no-fault insurance laws and can get you what you deserve. Our attorneys will protect you from claims adjusters and their bag of tricks.
For a free consultation with an experienced auto accident attorney in Michigan, contact Buchanan Firm. Our firm proudly serves people all across Michigan, including major cities like Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Detroit, Lansing, Holland, St. Joe, and Ann Arbor, and rural towns such as Lowell, Ada, Fremont, Newaygo, Grand Haven, Rockford, and Cedar Springs. We’ll meet you after hours, at home, or in the hospital to accommodate you.
