Why Does My Insurance Company Want a Recorded Statement?

Why does my own insurance company want a recorded statement? They want to gather details from you to assess your claim. At first, this might seem routine or even harmless—after all, your insurance company is supposed to be on your side, right?

However, there are other reasons they want your words on record, so it’s essential to understand why they’re requesting a recorded statement and how it can impact your claim.

Our Phoenix car accident lawyers have the information you need to understand what to watch out for and how you can protect your rights.

Why Does My Insurance Company Want a Recorded Statement?

Your insurance company may ask for a recorded statement for several reasons:

To Gather Information About the Incident

The insurance adjuster will use your recorded statement to learn more about what happened, including the details of the accident, the parties involved, and the extent of your injuries or damages. This information helps them assess your claim.

To Verify Your Account

A recorded statement allows the adjuster to document your version of events. They may compare your statement to police reports, medical records, and other evidence to confirm the accuracy of your claim.

To Minimize their Payout

While your insurance company has a duty to process your claim, they are also a business with a bottom line. Insurance companies often look for ways to reduce the amount they pay on claims.

A recorded statement gives them the opportunity to find inconsistencies, omissions, or statements they can use to challenge your claim or shift blame.

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Is it Required to Give a Recorded Statement?

In many cases, you are not legally required to provide a recorded statement, even to your own insurance company. While your policy may include a “duty to cooperate” clause, this doesn’t necessarily mean you must agree to a recorded statement.

You can often provide the necessary information in writing or through your attorney without creating a recorded record that could be misinterpreted or used against you.

How Could a Recorded Statement Hurt My Claim?

Even if you’re honest and forthcoming, a recorded statement can still harm your claim. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions in a way that may:

Create Inconsistencies: If your statement conflicts with other evidence or previous accounts, this could be used to question your credibility.
Downplay Your Injuries: You may unintentionally minimize the severity of your injuries, especially if you’re still recovering or not fully aware of their long-term impact.
Shift Blame: Adjusters may ask leading questions designed to make it seem like you were partially or fully at fault for the accident.

For example, they might ask, “Could you have done anything to avoid the accident?” Even a simple response like “I’m not sure” could be interpreted as an admission of partial fault.

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How Should I Respond if Asked for a Recorded Statement?

If your insurance company requests a recorded statement, here are a few steps to protect yourself:

Consult an Attorney: Before agreeing to provide any statement, speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help you understand your rights, communicate with the insurance company on your behalf, and ensure your interests are protected.
Request Written Questions: You may be able to provide the information the insurance company needs in writing instead of through a recorded statement. This gives you more time to carefully consider your answers.
Be Cautious and Brief: If you decide to give a recorded statement, stick to the facts and avoid speculation. Do not guess, exaggerate, or volunteer unnecessary information.
Do Not Discuss Fault or Injuries: Avoid making statements about who was at fault for the accident or the extent of your injuries, especially if you’re still in the early stages of recovery. These topics are best addressed after consulting with your attorney.

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Do I Need a Lawyer to Handle a Recorded Statement?

While it’s not mandatory to have legal representation, hiring an attorney can significantly strengthen your position when dealing with insurance companies. An attorney can:

Advocate for You: They’ll ensure your rights are respected and prevent the insurance company from taking advantage of you.
Handle Communication: Your attorney can speak to the insurance company on your behalf, reducing the risk of saying something that could harm your claim.
Evaluate Your Claim: They’ll help you understand the true value of your claim and ensure you’re not pressured into accepting a low settlement.

Our Phoenix personal injury lawyers have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies and protecting our clients’ interests. We know the tactics adjusters use to minimize payouts, and we’ll fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Get Help with Your Insurance Claim

If your insurance company has asked for a recorded statement, don’t navigate this process alone. Contact Zanes Law today to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through the claims process and protect your rights.

Call us now or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. Let us handle the insurance company so you can focus on recovering and moving forward.

Your case matters to us, and we’re here to help.

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