The days following an accident may be filled with legal jargon and steps you didn’t know you had to take. Maybe you want to file a claim for compensation, or perhaps you may not immediately understand why your own insurance company wants a recorded statement. You weren’t at fault, so why should you have to give a statement? Read through the following reasons and reach out to us if you have questions.
My Own Insurance Company Wants a Recorded Statement: What Does This Mean?
After your accident, an insurance adjuster may reach out to you to obtain a recorded statement. You’re probably wondering whether this is a good idea, or if you should hold off on this part of the process. It might not be a good idea to immediately give a statement.
Why Do Insurance Companies Ask for Recorded Statements?
The goal of the insurance company is to protect itself and its funds — it’s not to make sure you are physically and emotionally OK or financially secure after your accident. The adjuster may ask about how you’re doing, how you were injured, and your perception of the accident. They might also ask you:
- What happened in the accident
- Who you think is at fault
- How your injuries feel now or how you felt after the accident
- Whether you’ve had similar injuries in the past
- What you told other people, including police officers, after the accident
You’re not legally required to answer the questions they ask you, but the company might not tell you that. While it may feel good to talk to someone about the details of your accident, it’s best to talk to your attorney first.
Is it OK To Give Your Own Statement to an Insurance Company?
After an accident, you may have trouble thinking clearly or remembering exact details due to stress. This alone is a good reason not to give a permanent, on-record statement before you seek out legal counsel.
Additionally, if you are hesitant for any reason to give your statement to an insurance adjuster, don’t feel pressured into doing so. It’s completely your decision. Seeking help from experienced Phoenix car accident attorneys can provide legal advice to protect your rights.
Are Insurance Recorded Statements Discoverable?
The term “discoverable” refers to the information that can be obtained and used as evidence in a legal case. If you were in a car accident, for example, and your own insurance company wants a recorded statement, the other driver’s attorney may try to obtain your statement to assess liability for the accident (if it is disputed).
The discoverability of these statements typically depends on the unique case presented, and laws are slightly different in each state regarding which items are discoverable and which are protected by attorney-client privilege under Arizona state Law.
If Your Own Insurance Company Wants a Recorded Statement, Contact Us First
If you’re in Maricopa County, Arizona (or the surrounding areas) and you have questions about your own insurance company wanting a recorded statement, please reach out to a Phoenix personal injury attorney first. While this is a typical process, it’s understandable that you have questions and concerns about your individual case.
We know that being in an accident can cause great distress and financial hardship. Contact Sargon Law Group today for help building your case and getting your life back on track.
Sources:
https://wewin.com/glossary/discovery/
https://www.smithandhassler.com/articles/insurance-company-recorded-statement/
https://www.chaliklaw.com/faqs/what-is-a-recorded-statement-and-should-you-give-it-to-your-insurance-company-after-a-car-accident/