Milwaukee car accident lawyer on the phone advising a clientYou are approaching an intersection when the light turns green, so you continue to go. The only problem is that someone else runs a red light and slams into your car. You may feel lightheaded or be full of adrenaline immediately after the wreck, so it is important that you know what to say and what not to say after a Milwaukee car accident.

How to Talk With the Insurance Company

The best suggestion following a crash is to say as little as possible. It is a good thing to find out if everyone is all right but then, try and watch the words coming out of your mouth.

When people talk too much at a Milwaukee car crash scene, even to the paramedics, what they said could get back to the insurance company, be misconstrued, and used against them. This is why it is best to not say too much. Insurance companies train their adjusters to save the company money, even if it’s at your expense by using what you said against you. They do this by trying to settle your case quickly and for the least amount as possible.

What Not to Say

Things you should NEVER say at the accident scene include:

  • “I’m sorry.”
    People often apologize for things they didn’t do. If you apologize to the other driver, it could be used against you as admitting fault for the crash.
  • “I was ready for a new car anyway.”
    This statement could be construed as showing you looking for a way to get a new car.
  • “I just lost my job, and now this.”
    It could look as if you weren’t paying attention because you are going through a stressful situation.
  • “I’m not injured.”
    You may not know if you're injured for several hours or even days after the accident.

What Not to Do

The insurance adjuster will attempt to ask you questions and get your responses recorded. Do not allow the insurance company to record your statement without talking with a Wisconsin accident attorney first. Also, if you do not know how to answer something, it is best to not say anything.

Additionally, you should never accept the insurance company’s first offer. Of course you will need money to fix your car or get a new car, but don't be in a hurry to accept money right away. What if you settle too soon? If you settle too fast, you will not get the full compensation for potential future injuries.

If an insurance adjuster arrives at the accident scene or at the hospital with a check and release forms for you to sign, it is best to talk with an experienced attorney before accepting any settlement or signing any paperwork.

Have You Been Injured in a Milwaukee Car Accident? Contact Our Lawyer for a Free Consult!

If you've been injured in a car accident you should speak to an experienced car accident attorney in Milwaukee as soon as possible. You can contact us online or call our office directly at 800.800.5678 to schedule your free consultation with one of our car accident lawyers. We have been helping car accident victims since 1964 and service clients throughout Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa

Jason F. Abraham
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Helping car accident and personal injury victims throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa since 1993.