What is in a Recorded Statement?

Consider it a given, if you are involved in an auto accident you will have to give a statement to the auto insurance companies in some form. Some will do it over the phone, others will do it in person, some will be recorded while others will not. Regardless of the situation it is important for you to pay attention to some facets of the recorded statement given by the auto insurance adjuster to ensure the process is legit.

Here are a few things to look for from any auto insurance company during the statement process of the auto insurance claim:

-Before starting the statement, if the adjuster does not tell you if the statement will be recorded or not ask them! Insurance companies themselves have very strict rules to play by regarding this disclosure, but as with any company, there can be rogue employees. Ask them very directly and bluntly if the statement will be recorded, if you don't get a straight answer, don't give the statement.

-If the auto insurance adjuster is going to record the statement, make sure they are doing some sort of introduction to begin the recording. This is important for multiple reasons, the least of which is that you want to have both of your names stated at the beginning of the statement. Also, you want to make sure that there is an official start to the recorded statement for you and the adjuster.

-After the adjuster has given an introduction for the recorded statement make sure they have asked for your permission to record the statement. Auto insurance claims are open to legal interpretation and prosecution, if they don't ask for your permission the entire statement could be null and void.

-If the auto insurance adjuster is asking you more probing questions than just "how did the accident happen?" this is a good thing! Auto insurance companies are open to the same problems of any other employer with the possibility of having disgruntled and disillusioned employees that have just given up. The more questions the adjuster asks the better chance of a successful conclusion.

It is perfectly normal and acceptable for you to be nervous about doing a statement for an auto insurance company. However, understand that if everything seems to be legitimate with questioning you have nothing to worry about with your auto insurance claim.