After being in a car accident, the last thing you want to deal with is an insurance company. But, if you’re going to get the financial help you need to recover from the accident you will need to deal with a car insurance company.

Don’t let working with an insurance company intimidate you. Here are 5 things you should know when dealing with the car insurance company.

Document Details of the Accident

At the scene of the accident, you need to gather as much information as you can. You should get the name of the other driver, their contact information and their insurance information. You also need to get the names and contact information of any eyewitnesses. Then, note any other aspects of the accident such as road and weather conditions. If you can, take photos of the accident scene too. Photos will more accurately depict the extent of vehicle damage and any injuries.

Having this information will help you when you speak with an insurance adjuster about your claim and help support your claim.

Don’t Admit Fault

After you notify the insurance company about the accident, a claims adjuster should contact you within a few days.  Each time you speak to a claims adjuster, stick to the hard facts of the crash such as how fast you were traveling, which direction, describing the conditions that led up to the accident and what happened during the accident.

Under no circumstances should you claim responsibility for the accident. Doing so could harm your chances of receiving compensation. Even if you innocently say you are sorry the accident happened, the claims adjuster could accept that as admitting fault. You should also avoid giving a recorded statement without legal representation.

Don’t Automatically Settle

To save themselves money, insurance companies will often offer you a quick settlement that is much less than what you could get from a personal injury claim. They count on you needing money to repair your vehicle or pay medical bills, so they offer a lower settlement. They may even lead you to believe that what they’re offering is the most you could receive. Don’t be deceived.

Don’t Use Insurance Company Mechanic

When insurance companies agree to pay for the damages to your vehicle, they often set up an appointment for you with their “in-network” mechanic. This does not mean you have to take your car to their mechanic. Actually, you should see a mechanic of your own choosing. Insurance companies often have “deals” with their mechanic to keep costs low. This means their mechanic may use cheaper replacement parts or not fully diagnose and repair your vehicle.

Get Help Dealing with the Insurance Companies

You should not deal with insurance companies on your own after your car accident. Insurance companies worry more about paying the least they can than making sure you get the compensation you deserve. Their trained insurance adjusters will attempt to get you to admit fault or work against your receiving adequate compensation. You need someone fighting on your behalf to protect your best interest. An experienced personal injury lawyer can communicate with the insurance company and ensure they do not take advantage of you.

Brock & Stout’s personal injury attorneys have over 25 years of experience dealing with car insurance companies. We fight to help her clients get the compensation they deserved after their car accident. Contact us for a free evaluation to see if we can help you.