What Should You Do If Someone Asks For A Recorded Statement Besides Your Insurance Company?
After an accident, there are a lot of moving parts. A minor slip of the tongue, or mishap in any area can have serious consequences on your case.
That’s why we always recommend getting a lawyer involved as quickly as possible. We are all too familiar with the reality that even though an insurance company will have their best interest in mind, a reliable and professional lawyer will have yours.
It’s an insurance adjuster's job to find ways to reduce liability and it’s easy to fall into their traps. After an accident, before you speak to anyone, call the experts at Edelstein Law and speak to our dedicated and committed Philadelphia car accident lawyers. They can guide you through the process and make sure you don’t say anything that can weaken or deny your claim and secure the compensation you deserve.
The Laws Regarding Recorded Statements
Here in the state of Pennsylvania, you are not legally obligated to provide a recorded statement to another driver's insurance company. Unfortunately, they may try to encourage you to do so in order to manipulate your claim and deny fault. That being said, because Pennsylvania is a “no-fault” state, you must provide a recorded statement to your own insurance company upon request.
Even if you feel you’re doing the right thing by telling the truth, anything you say –and even don’t say, can hurt or damage your claim. Seemingly harmless phrases like “I guess so,” “I’m alright,” “I got lucky,” can and will get turned against you.
If you’ve been asked to record a statement to someone other than your own insurance company, call an experienced accident lawyer right away.
What to Say And What Not to Say When Speaking With An Insurance Company
Even when speaking to your own insurance company, it’s best to prepare your answers ahead of time to ensure your account is factual and consistent. Our expert car accident attorneys recommend writing down the events leading up to the accident and presenting them in an outlined, sequential manner to avoid getting off script.
We also recommend the following:
Don’t say too much, be direct and straightforward
Don’t reveal any personal struggles or previous injuries
Don’t admit to breaking any laws
Make a personal copy of your recorded statement
Don’t downplay your injuries
Don’t speculate or answer any questions you don’t know
If asked, you can disclose accident related injuries but avoid getting too specific until you’ve received medical attention and know the full extent. Many times, injuries don’t present for weeks or even months.
A recorded statement is a critical piece of evidence and can be held against you in the event your case goes to trial. It’s imperative you follow the steps outlined here to protect your case.
How An Accident Lawyer Can Protect Your Claim
The fact is, an insurance company wants you to settle for as little as possible. On the other hand, an aggressive and experienced lawyer wants to see you get the compensation you deserve. There’s no reason you should have to suffer physically or financially at the fault of another driver.
After an accident, we encourage you to contact our Philadelphia car accident lawyers right away. Even if you’ve already provided a recorded statement, we have the experience to help.
The skilled attorneys at the Law Offices of Jay L. Edelstein will evaluate your recorded statement and accident claim to get you the total compensation you deserve. We are sensitive to and understand that these are difficult and stressful times. Let our Philadelphia accident lawyers help you.
Our office is conveniently located in Center City Philadelphia allowing us to easily represent clients in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call us today at 215-893-9311 or 856-809-3150 to schedule a free consultation with a qualified and trustworthy Philadelphia car accident lawyer or contact us online.