Questions Insurers Ask When Investigating Bradenton Car Accident Claims

When car accidents in Bradenton happen, automobile insurance you and other drivers have can help you avoid out-of-pocket costs. However, getting a reasonable settlement is often a challenge. Our Bradenton car accident lawyer explains common questions often ask and how your answers could work against you.

Information Required By Car Insurance Companies When Accidents Happen

Under the Florida Statutes, all drivers are required to carry a minimum amount of automobile insurance. If you are involved in a car accident in Bradenton, information the insurer will likely require includes:

• A copy of the police report: You are required to report any accident involving property damages or personal injuries to the police.
• Information about you, the other drivers, and the vehicles involved: This includes driver’s license, insurance, and vehicle registration numbers. The insurance company will typically send an adjuster to each vehicle.
• Copies of your medical records: Regardless of the extent of your injuries, seek medical care immediately when a car accident in Bradenton happens. Medical records play an important role in resolving your claim.
• Statements regarding lost wages and other damages: Keep copies of pay stubs and statements from your employer documenting lost income, as well as receipts for any other financial costs you incur.

Questions You May Be Asked In Car Accident Insurance Interviews

According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), Florida is one of the most expensive states when it comes to the costs of car insurance. After faithfully paying on your policy for years, it can come as a shock to file a claim only to have it be denied or disputed.

Unfortunately, this is a common practice and questions asked by insurers after crashes or collisions are often designed to work against you. These include:

• Where were you coming from prior to the accident? If you were out with friends or driving home after a long shift, insurers may try to accuse you of drowsy driving or driving under the influence.
• Where were you headed? If you were headed to work or had reservations for dinner, they may try to accuse you of speeding or being distracted.
• What were you doing at the exact time of the crash? Insurers will look for responses indicating you were not paying attention, were engaged in reckless driving, or otherwise could have avoided the crash.
• Did you receive medical care right away? Not seeking immediate medical attention could cast doubt on the severity of your injuries.
• Have you been in any prior crashes? A history of prior accidents or traffic violations will work against you.
• What actions on your part may have contributed to the crash? Admitting even partial liability can result in the denial of your claim.

Speak With Our Bradenton Car Accident Lawyer First

Before making statements to insurers or answering their questions, speak to Bradenton car accident lawyer Steven G. Lavely first. We protect your rights in filing a claim and help you get the maximum amount you are entitled to in a settlement. Call or contact us online and request a consultation today.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699/0627/Sections/0627.7407.html

iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-auto-insurance