Written or Recorded Statement

Written and recorded statements are a part of almost every car accident case whether it is just a simple insurance claim or a lawsuit. It must be noted that insurance companies are notorious for pressurizing claimants and witnesses into providing recorded statements during auto accident investigations. Such pressure is normally put during the first claim phone call. The main reason for this is that insurance adjusters in most cases have a script for recorded statement. As a result the adjuster can focus on the information they believe is relevant to the claim. However, this may differ significantly from what you feel is relevant. In addition, recorded statements are easier for adjusters and investigators to process and control.

It is important to realize that in the majority of situations adjusters ambush the client into a recorded statements request. Because of the manner in which the statements are requested such recorded statements are made without input from an attorney. As a result any statements you give whether written or recorded will have a direct impact on any decision made regarding liability for the accident. As such not having legal counsel makes the difference between getting compensation and having your compensation denied.

Written Statements

In an insurance claim you have the right to submit a written statement. Depending on your policy, you may not have the right to deny a recording of events. However, you are allowed to submit a written statement stating your version of events. A written statement gives you the opportunity to tell your side of the story. By providing a written statement it allows you to spell out exactly what happened leading up to the claim. In addition, there is no pressure to get it right the first time as written statements are done on your own time. You can write, edit, rewrite and tweak your written statement as well as get input from other people.  An added advantage is that you can discuss the statement with an attorney if you wish.