Yes, you should talk to your insurance company after an accident in Tennessee. More than likely your policy includes a notice requirement. Your auto insurance policy is a contract for liability coverage and benefits. Contracts require both sides to cooperate. To obtain benefits you must call and file a claim. The best number to call is usually printed on the back of your insurance card or search out the name of your insurance company followed by the word ‘claims’.
If you believe you could be at fault after a car accident or dog bite contact Tennessee Personal Injury Attorney George Angelopoulos first. It’s possible your insurance carrier will be able to help defend a claim, but it is also possible we need benefits from your insurance to provide compensation. If the other insurance company calls we suggest not to say anything until you speak with an experienced accident lawyer.
Every accident is different. Initial legal consultations are quick and most occur over the phone. Text or Call 615-422-7171 or request a free accident case review here.
What should I say to my insurance company after an accident?
Stick to the facts: Who, What, When and Where. When reporting a claim the first line of defense is a call center staffed 24/7 with employees trained to obtain information. They will listen to what happened and open a claim in their system. The person on this call is not your adjuster. There is no reason to divulge anything but the basic and obvious facts.
There are a lot of unknowns early after an accident. More detail will be needed once an adjuster is assigned. The worst thing you can do is tell your insurance company you are not hurt. When asked about accident injuries tell them you plan to be checked out by a doctor.
Injuries, particularly from car accidents, can manifest days after a car wreck, even a minor one. Statements can be used against you later on. It is possible the at fault driver is without insurance or has insufficient coverage for your losses. This means uninsured motorist coverage may be needed to recover compensation. This benefit is included in your Tennessee auto insurance policy unless you declined it in writing per Tennessee law.
These insurance companies are pretty efficient. Before you hang up on this initial call an adjuster may be assigned by the representative on your case. Write down your claim number, your adjuster’s name and number (if available). You should receive a letter documenting your claim in the next few days.
When should I call my insurance company after an accident?
When possible, contact your insurance carrier within two days of the accident. Your policy may contain a specific deadline, but two days seems pretty reasonable.
If any of this creates apprehension or you are searching for information on behalf of a loved one after an accident then George can help. We handle the conversations, preserve the evidence and hold at fault parties accountable by demanding fair monetary compensation under Tennessee injury law. Call 615-422-7171 and George can get started today!
