Do I have to talk to the other driver’s insurance company after a wreck?
What is a Recorded Statement in a car wreck Case?
In Texas, recorded statements are statements taken by insurance companies after a motor vehicle collision where they give the folks involved in a collision an opportunity to explain what happened in their own words. These statements can be given to your own insurance company, and to the other driver’s insurance company. Often times, insurance companies deploy their agents to politely ask if you are willing to give a recorded statement about the collision. Recorded statements can be given by all individuals involved in a collision, including passengers.
Do I have to give a Recorded Statement?
No. In Texas, there is no law requiring anyone involved in a motor vehicle collision to speak with any insurance company, even their own insurance company, and then giving a recorded statement about what occurred in a motor vehicle collision. You are allowed to decline giving a recorded statement without punishment or negative consequences. Best practice is to simply provide the police report to the insurance company (if you have one) and respectfully decline to give a statement about a collision you have been involved in. It also is wise to refer the insurance company to your attorney!
What are the cons of giving a Recorded Statement?
To put it simply, giving a recorded statement to an insurance company after a motor vehicle collision is never a good idea. Insurance companies will use your recorded statement as justification to pay you less money in the event of a settlement, and even to deny your claim outright if liability is an issue.
TEXAS PERSONAL INJURY TRIAL LAWYER
A Texas personal injury and civil trial attorney understands the serious and complex ramifications of being injured due to the negligence of another. Retaining a good personal injury civil trial attorney is your best and first opportunity to build a robust case, offers your best chance of obtaining the financial compensation to make you whole, and is the best way to hold the negligent people and corporations accountable for the damages they have caused you. If you've experienced a personal injury or believe you have a civil case in Dallas, Texas or its surrounding counties, the Law Office of Alton James III is prepared to fight for you. We have dedicated our practice holding negligent people and greedy corporations accountable for their actions when they harm Texans. To set up a free consultation, and to see how we can fight for you, contact the Law Office of Alton James III today at 469.638.5571.
