Should I give a recorded statement?
This is a question that comes up often, so I thought I would give you my two cents on that issue.
Once there is a car accident you will have claim adjusters calling you to give a recorded statement. They will tell you that they need this to continue the “investigation.” Since when an investigation has to be recorded? The police does not ask you in a recording if the other car hit you. They simply just ask. An investigation can continue without the need of a recorded statement.
But really, what is a recorded statement? It is just a conversation with a claim adjuster where you explain what happened in the wreck. Does it have to be recorded? No, there is nothing on the policy or in any state statute where you are required to tell the insurance company what happened while you are being taped!
Legally speaking you do not have to give a recorded statement, and your insurance coverage cannot simply be denied on the basis of tape.
You can simply give a statement and tell the insurance what happened. No need for a recording. Insurance adjusters love to do this because it is a great way to frame into admitting to something you did not do or into admitting something that would hinder with the coverage decision.
Do you have to give a recorded statement? No, no legally. Should you? No, or at least you should consider giving one if your attorney is present.
