Should You Talk to Insurance Companies After a Motorcycle Accident?
After a motorcycle accident, one of the first calls you’re likely to receive is from an insurance adjuster. They may sound helpful and concerned, but their ultimate goal is to save their company money. What you say to an insurance company, especially the other driver’s insurer, can greatly affect your ability to receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
In this guide, we’ll walk through what you should and shouldn’t say, your rights, and how working with an experienced attorney can protect your claim.
The Role of Insurance Companies
There are two main insurers you may have to deal with after an accident:
- Your own insurer (for things like MedPay, uninsured motorist claims, or to report the accident)
- The at-fault driver’s insurer (who will evaluate your claim and possibly offer a settlement)
While it’s important to report your accident to your insurer, you should approach every conversation, especially with the other driver’s insurance company, with caution.
What to Expect From the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
Shortly after the crash, an adjuster may call you asking for:
- A recorded statement
- Details about your injuries
- Your version of how the accident happened
- Authorization to access your medical records
They may act friendly and suggest they need this information to “process your claim quickly.” But their real goal is to:
- Get you to say something that implies partial fault
- Minimize the severity of your injuries
- Use your own words against you later in negotiations
What You Should Say (and What to Avoid)
If you do speak with the other driver’s insurer before hiring a lawyer:
Do:
- Confirm the basic facts (name, location, date of accident)
- Get the adjuster’s name and contact info
- Politely decline to give a recorded statement
Do Not:
- Admit fault or say you were speeding or distracted
- Downplay your injuries with phrases like “I’m okay” or “It wasn’t that bad”
- Speculate about the cause of the crash or the other driver’s actions
- Accept a quick settlement or sign any documents
Even a casual comment like “I didn’t see them” or “I was running late” can be used to argue that you contributed to the accident.
Should You Talk to Your Own Insurance Company?
Yes, but still proceed carefully. While your insurer is contractually obligated to act in good faith, it still has incentives to minimize payouts. Provide the basics and let your attorney handle the rest. Avoid giving a recorded statement until you’ve consulted with legal counsel.
The Dangers of Early Settlements
Insurance companies may try to offer a quick settlement shortly after the crash, especially if they know their driver was at fault. The catch? These offers are often far lower than what your case is truly worth.
Accepting an early settlement can prevent you from:
- Seeking compensation for ongoing medical treatment
- Getting reimbursed for lost future wages
- Pursuing pain and suffering damages
- Reopening your claim later if symptoms worsen
Once you sign a settlement agreement, you typically waive your right to pursue additional compensation, even if your injuries become more serious.
When to Involve a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
The best way to protect yourself is to let an attorney handle all communications with insurance companies. A skilled personal injury lawyer can:
- Evaluate your case and estimate its full value
- Communicate with adjusters so you don’t say the wrong thing
- Negotiate for a fair settlement or prepare for trial if necessary
- Ensure your medical bills and lost wages are fully covered
How Mary Alexander & Associates Protects Injured Riders
At Mary Alexander & Associates, we understand the tactics insurers use to protect their bottom lines, and we know how to fight back. Our team helps motorcycle accident victims across the Bay Area by:
- Gathering evidence to prove liability and damages
- Consulting medical experts to document long-term impact
- Challenging lowball offers and demanding full compensation
- Guiding you through every step of your recovery and legal process
You deserve to heal without the stress of dealing with aggressive insurance reps. That’s where we come in.
Final Thoughts
Talking to insurance companies after a motorcycle accident can be risky, especially when you’re still recovering and unsure of your legal options. Avoid giving recorded statements, don’t accept early offers, and never admit fault.
Instead, let a trusted attorney speak on your behalf and fight for the compensation you truly deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, contact Mary Alexander & Associates for a free consultation. We’re here to protect your rights, handle the insurance headaches, and help you focus on healing.
