BACK TO ALL BLOGS

What Should I Say to the Insurance Company After an Accident?

Nothing. This may seem like a trick question, but it’s not. Insurance adjusters from both your own insurance company and the liable insurance company will immediately attempt to contact you after an accident in Greenwood. Adjusters are looking for any evidence that will decrease their company’s liability, meaning many are trying to trap you into admitting fault. Even making statements such as, “I didn’t see,” could be enough to deny you coverage after a motor vehicle accident.

You have the right to have an experienced Greenwood car accident attorney from Nicholson, Meredeth & Anderson on the line with you when making insurance statements. You may need to speak with adjusters, but you don’t have to do it alone.

Understanding Your Insurance Claims Rights in South Carolina

South Carolina insurance companies do have certain rights to demand evidence and statements as a means of preventing fraud. This often includes the right to obtain a sworn statement from involved parties, including negligent drivers and those making a claim for damages. However, they do not have the right to obtain this statement immediately. You generally have 30 days before you’re even required to file a claim and another 60 days from the time the adjuster makes a request to submit ‘proof of loss.’

Don’t be surprised if adjusters try to rush you. They want to close claims quickly, so they will often pressure you into making a statement as soon as you pick up the phone. They are not always on your side. Respectfully explain that you need to speak with an attorney and that you will provide appropriate information in a timely manner and end the phone call.

Submitting ‘Proof of Loss’ to Greenwood Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are required to provide claimants with a proof of loss form under South Carolina law. Do not fill out this form on your own. A personal injury attorney might maximize the value of your claims by helping you submit strong evidence of both liability and actual losses. This evidence may include:

• Sworn statements (affidavits)
• Police accident reports
• Photographs
• Videos
• Emergency room and ambulance records
• Medical bills
• Pay stubs indicating lost income
• Witness statements

Experienced personal injury attorneys will submit the initial evidence and then prepare a strong settlement and demand package to send to insurers. This package frequently includes all your medical records, records of lost income, and statements regarding your pain and suffering. The demand package might also include reports from expert witnesses testifying to your future anticipated damages along with overall financial demand for settlement.

Don’t Talk to Insurers: Call a Greenwood Car Accident Attorney Immediately

If you retain a South Carolina car accident lawyer, insurance adjusters must send all requests for evidence and communications through the law firm. This protects you from harassment and falling into adjusters’ traps. Do not take on powerful insurance companies alone. You focus on recovering from your injuries and let the experienced Greenwood personal injury lawyers at Nicholson, Meredeth & Anderson handle the insurance companies. Schedule your free, no-risk case analysis as soon as possible by calling (864) 229-7241 or contact us online.