When you are involved in an accident, you will inform your insurance company about it. They will use the information you provide to file a claim against the other party’s insurer to compensate you. But what should you tell them?
Here is what your insurance company needs to know.
General information
When reporting the accident to your insurance company, you will provide general information, including:
- Your name
- Names of involved parties
- Location of the accident
- Date and time of the accident
- The other party’s insurance information
- Make and model of the cars involved, if possible
- A copy of the police report, and so on.
Your insurance company may make this easier for you – they will ask questions related to the information they want to obtain. It may be best to answer the questions asked only. Voluntarily providing information that has not been requested may not be the best move.
General description of the accident
Your insurer will ask you to describe how the accident occurred. You should stick to the facts – do not exaggerate or guess matters. If you don’t have an answer to a question, say, “I don’t know.” Avoid statements that start with, ‘I guess,” I believe,” “I think,” or “In my opinion.”
Further, when describing the case, don’t state that it’s your official statement. Consider seeking legal guidance before giving any recorded or written statement.
Your insurance company will use the information you provide and review evidence and witness statements to determine the claim’s legitimacy and the liable party.
Most policies require policyholders to report an accident to the insurance company. However, it’s crucial to know what to say. It may help to get legal guidance to avoid providing information that can disadvantage you.