Getting a phone call from the other driver’s insurance company after a car accident can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and the stress of the situation. 

While it might seem like they’re trying to help, it’s important to understand that the other driver’s insurance company is not on your side. Their primary goal is to minimize the amount they pay out on claims, which means they’re looking for ways to reduce or deny your claim entirely.

If you’ve been in an accident in Wake Forest, Raleigh, or anywhere in North Carolina, knowing how to handle these calls can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Why Is the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Calling Me?

While these companies may seem helpful and concerned about your wellbeing, they have strategic reasons for contacting you that serve their interests, not yours. 

They want to gather information while the details are still fresh in your mind, hoping you might say something that could be used to limit their liability or shift blame to you. Insurance adjusters often request recorded statements, which can later be used against you if your recollection of events changes or if you remember additional details about your injuries.

Additionally, they may try to make a quick settlement offer before you fully understand the extent of your injuries or damages. These initial offers are almost always far below what your case is actually worth, but they’re hoping you’ll accept immediate compensation rather than wait to see how your injuries develop. 

The adjusters are also trained to establish rapport and trust, making you feel like they’re genuinely trying to help when their actual goal is to protect their company’s bottom line and minimize payouts.

What Not To Do When Talking To The Other Driver’s Insurance

Don’t Give a Recorded Statement

One of the most important things to remember is that you are not legally required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Politely decline their request for a recorded statement. These recordings can be taken out of context or used against you later in your claim.

Don’t Discuss the Details of the Accident

While you might feel compelled to be helpful and cooperative, avoid providing detailed information about how the accident occurred. Stick to basic facts only, such as the date, time, and location of the accident. Leave the investigation to the professionals.

Don’t Admit Fault or Speculate

Never admit fault or make statements like “I’m sorry” or “I should have been more careful.” Even innocent comments can be twisted to suggest you were partially responsible for the accident. Under North Carolina’s contributory negligence law, even being slightly at fault can completely bar you from recovering damages.

Don’t Discuss Your Injuries in Detail

Avoid providing detailed information about your injuries, especially in the immediate aftermath of an accident. Some injuries, particularly soft tissue injuries, may not manifest symptoms for days or weeks after the collision. What might seem like minor soreness initially could develop into a serious condition requiring extensive treatment.

Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer

Initial settlement offers are typically far below the true value of your claim. Insurance companies hope you’ll accept a quick payout before you realize the full extent of your injuries and damages. Once you accept a settlement, you cannot pursue additional compensation later.

Understanding North Carolina’s Insurance Laws

North Carolina is one of the few states that still follows the strict rule of contributory negligence. This means that if you are found to be even slightly at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any damages.

In North Carolina, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s important to begin the claims process much sooner to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

North Carolina requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, but these minimum amounts may not be sufficient to cover serious injuries or significant property damage. For these reasons, it’s important to consult with an attorney, even if your injuries initially seem minor.

When To Contact Green Mistretta Law

While not every accident requires legal representation, you should strongly consider contacting us if:

• You suffered injuries that required medical treatment
• The insurance company is pressuring you to give a statement or settle quickly
• There are disputes about who was at fault
• You’re dealing with a commercial vehicle or trucking company
• The other driver was uninsured or underinsured
• Your injuries are preventing you from working

Moving Forward After Your Accident

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this process alone. Remember that the other driver’s insurance company is not looking out for your best interests, despite how helpful they might seem on the phone.

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Wake Forest, Raleigh, or anywhere in North Carolina, Green Mistretta Law understands what you’re going through. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial from day one, and we’re known for our aggressive approach to protecting our clients’ rights. 

Don’t let an insurance company take advantage of you during this vulnerable time. Contact Green Mistretta Law at (919) 278-7453 to discuss your case and learn how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Your initial consultation is free, and we’re here to fight for your rights every step of the way.