How to Report a Car Accident to Insurance Companies

When a person suffers a personal injury as a result of an automobile accident in Florida, there is often a question as to whether the accident needs to be reported to the injury victim’s automobile insurance company.

The answer is that you should report it. However, it is very wise to seek the advice of personal injury attorney before giving any statements to an insurance company.

When a person owns or drives an automobile and takes out of an insurance policy, a contract is formed between the driver and the insurance company. Under the terms of most automobile insurance policies, there is a “duty of cooperation.” This means that the driver must cooperate fully and in a timely manner.

Because of this, an injury victim must report accidents to his or her insurance company in a timely manner.

This does not necessarily mean that the automobile accident has to be reported immediately. But it does mean that the accident must be reported in a timely manner so that the insurance company is not impeded in future handling of any claims made under the policy.

In many instances, the injury victim may have an adversary claim or case against his or her automobile insurance company.

In other words, there is a fight or dispute between the injury victim and his or her insurance company about the amount of payment or compensation.

Because of this, statements and information provided to an injury victim’s insurance company can have a huge impact on the claim.

Should You Retain a Lawyer When Reporting an Automobile Accident?

It is often helpful (and wise) to have the advice, consultation, and legal representation from an experienced Florida Personal Injury Attorney.

It is important to first consult with an experienced Florida Personal Injury Attorney about your rights. And, about the the responsibilities of the insurance companies before providing a recorded or unrecorded statement.

Also, if the injury victim retains the services of a personal injury attorney, the claim can be reported by the attorney. This can reduce the stress and uncertainty of providing the initial statement of the facts and issues to the insurance company.

Insurance companies and insurance adjusters have a duty to document the file, investigate the claim, and pay out benefits when the insurance company determines that the medical bills and expenses are reasonable and necessary as related to the accident.

Remember that an insurance adjuster’s duty or allegiance is to the insurance company. This is why having an attorney on your side is so important when giving any statements.

While insurance adjusters should act in good faith and should handle a claim with due diligence and professionalism, the insurance adjuster reports to the insurance company and not to the injury victim.

Should the Injury Victim Give a Statement to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?

After a car accident, injury victims often face many challenges and issues.It is common for the insurance company to contact the injury victim to obtain a statement and other information regarding injuries.

Most attorneys who handle personal injury cases will advise against giving such a statement. At least until the injury victim consults with a Florida Personal Injury Attorney.

An injury victim has no legal duty to provide a statement to the at-fault driver’s insurance company in most instances. However, there are some exceptions to this general rule.

Because of the complexities of car accident and injury laws and the nuances of insurance and compensation, it is important for a person to seek advice and consultation from a Florida Personal Injury Attorney following an automobile accident.

Most attorneys handle these cases on the contingency basis meaning no recovery, no attorney fees. Furthermore, most Florida Personal Injury Attorneys will provide a free consultation to the injury victim.

At Wood, Atter and Wolf, we strive to solve the most important problems created by an automobile accident.

The proven methods we employ create a working environment that allows both parties to resolve their differences.

Contact Us Today

If you have a personal injury case and need legal advice or help with insurance claims, it’s best to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney. Call the team at Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. for a consultation to discuss your legal needs.

If you believe you will need legal representation, call us today. We can help you get through this trying time and get you and your family on the right path.

(904) 355-8888 or click to set up a consultation to discuss your legal options.

Call Us Today to Schedule a Personal Injury Consultation

If you believe you will need legal representation, call us today. We can help you get through this trying time and get you and your family on the right path.

(904) 355-8888 or click to set up a consultation to discuss your legal options.