Responding to a Recorded Statement Request Following a Car Accident

You've just been in a traumatic car accident. In addition to the damage to your car, you're probably dealing with physical pain and emotional suffering. Adding to the stress is an increasing tendency amongst insurance companies. Many insurance adjusters are now asking car accident claimants to make a "voluntary" statement that will be recorded. If this happens to you, proceed with caution.

Don't let an insurance adjuster bully you by claiming that you have a "cooperation" clause in your insurance contract. The contract possibly states that you should cooperate with the insurance firm, but not that you have to submit to being recorded without your consent. That's an invasion of privacy.

If the adjuster is argumentative and demanding, ask the individual to submit the request to you in writing, citing the clause in the contract to which he is referring. Then, check your policy to see the actual wording.

If you agree to the interview, stick to the facts. Tell the adjuster that you only consent to the interview if a copy of the recording is made available to you in MP3 or transcript form. Make sure that you say this when the adjuster is recording so that it is all on the record. Have a copy of the police report that you filed after the crash with you when you do the interview. This should include facts like the name of the street you were on when the accident happened, the time of the day, etc. Only answer the questions that are put to you - nothing more. Don't answer subjective questions. Instead, tell the investigator that you don't know what he's getting at, and ask him to be more specific so that you can answer with facts. Finally, always be polite, and plan ahead if you want an attorney to be with you.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car or motorcycle accident and is facing difficulties with an insurance company, we can help. Michael S. Weisberg has been helping folks like you and your family for 30 years in the Tidewater area. Call toll-free today at 1-800-690-0235 for a free consultation.