Who may be calling
You may hear from your own auto or health insurer, the other driver's insurer, a property owner's insurer, or a company hired to handle claims. Each has a different role, and it helps to know which one you are talking to.
Adjusters are doing their jobs, and many are courteous and professional. Still, the person calling on behalf of the other side works for that side, and their questions serve that purpose.
Keep a call log
Start a page for insurance contacts and add to it every time someone calls, writes, or emails. A few details per call is enough.
- Date and time of the call
- The caller's name, company, and phone number
- The claim number they gave you
- What they asked for, such as a recorded statement, a signature, or records
- What you said and what you agreed to send
Your own insurance company
Your own policy is a contract, and it usually asks you to report a crash and cooperate with your insurer. Nothing here suggests ignoring your own policy. If you are unsure what your policy requires, read it, ask your agent, or ask the office.
Keep copies of everything you send your insurer, and note what they said about coverage.
Questions to bring to a lawyer first
Record what the caller is asking for and when a response is requested. Ask the office how to handle the request in your circumstances, particularly if it concerns a statement, release, settlement, or policy obligation.
- Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer?
- Should I sign a medical records release, and how broad is it?
- Is this early settlement offer something to consider?
- What does this letter mean, and does it need a response?
- Can I be reimbursed for the rental car or the time I missed?
Talk with the office
The consultation is free, and there is no attorney fee unless we recover compensation. Call (907) 569-6633, Monday through Friday, 9 to 5 Alaska time, or send a short note through the site. Bring your call log.