What Should I Say To Auto Insurers After a Maryland Car Accident?

When car accidents in Maryland happen, auto insurers may begin calling almost immediately after. Unfortunately, their goal isn’t to help you. It’s to protect their bottom line.

Knowing how to handle those first conversations can make the difference between a fair settlement and a denied claim. Our experienced Maryland car accident attorneys explain what to say, what to avoid, and when to get legal help.

Injured in a Maryland Car Accident? What to Say When the Insurance Company Calls

According to the Maryland State Police, close to 30,000 people are injured in car accidents throughout the state each year. Under the Department of Motor Vehicles guidelines, motorists must maintain a mandatory minimum amount of auto insurance coverage.

When a crash happens, insurers are likely to begin calling within days, pressuring you to make a statement. Stay calm, be polite, but say as little as possible. Information you can provide includes:

• Basic facts only, such as your name, contact information, and insurance policy number.
• The time, date, and general location of the crash.
• The fact that your car was damaged and that you are arranging a replacement or repairs.
• That you are seeking medical care, but do not describe your injuries in detail yet.
• Ask that future correspondence be in writing or through your attorney.

You do not have to give a recorded statement, sign documents, or estimate damages. In fact, we strongly advise against it. These are common tactics insurers use to get you to say something that could later hurt your case.

What Not to Say to the Auto Insurance Company After A Maryland Car Accident

Insurers are trained to look for inconsistencies or anything that suggests shared fault, which is a big deal in Maryland, where contributory negligence laws mean you can be denied compensation if you’re even slightly to blame. Avoid saying things like:

• “I’m fine” or “I’m not hurt,” as injuries often appear days later.
• “I think it was partly my fault,” or other speculative statements.
• “I don’t need a lawyer,” as this can cause insurers to try to rush you into a low settlement.
• “I’ll take care of it myself,” which signals you may settle for less.
• “I didn’t see them coming,” which can be twisted to imply inattention.

Even small talk can be risky. Keep it factual, short, and professional until you’ve spoken to an attorney who can handle communication for you.

Contact Our Maryland Car Accident Attorneys Today

When dealing with auto insurers after a car accident in Maryland, keep in mind you only have one chance to get the compensation you deserve. Once you accept an insurance settlement, you forfeit the right to any future claims.

At Berman Sobin Gross LLP, we fight to get you the maximum amount you are entitled to, whether it be through insurers or by taking your case to court. Before making any statements that could negatively impact your case, call or contact our office online. Request a consultation today to speak with our experienced Maryland car accident attorneys.

Sources:

mdsp.maryland.gov/Pages/Dashboards/CrashDataDashboard.aspx

mva.maryland.gov/vehicles/Pages/insurance-requirements.aspx