At The Dash Cam Lawyer® in Florida, we know that dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be stressful. One question many of our clients have is whether they should provide a statement to the property owner’s insurance company after a slip and fall. It’s a crucial decision that can significantly impact your case, so let’s discuss this in more detail.

Understanding the Role of Insurance Companies

Firstly, it’s important to understand that insurance companies are businesses. Their primary goal is often to minimize payouts. When you’re asked to provide a statement, remember that the insurance adjuster’s job is to find information that can be used to reduce or deny your claim.

Request for a Statement

Facing the request for a statement from an insurance company after an accident, such as a slip and fall, requires careful consideration, especially in Florida. Here’s a breakdown of why caution is advised:

• Right to Decline or Use Legal Representation: While you may feel pressured to provide a statement to the insurance company, remember that you are not legally obligated to do so immediately. You have the right to either decline to give a statement or choose to do so through a legal representative, such as a personal injury attorney. This approach ensures that your rights are protected and that you don’t unintentionally say something that could be used against you in your claim.
• Insurance Company’s Interests: Insurance companies are in the business of minimizing their financial exposure. When they ask for a statement, their goal is often to find information that could justify reducing the amount of your claim or denying it altogether. They might use your words out of context or highlight certain aspects of your statement to suggest that you were at fault or your injuries are not as severe as claimed.
• Legal Implications in Florida: Florida’s new modified comparative negligence rule plays a significant role in personal injury claims. Under this rule, your compensation can be reduced if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident. If your statement to the insurance company suggests that you bear more than 50% of the fault, you might be barred from recovering any damages. Therefore, what you say in your statement can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.

Why Caution is Key

• Statements Can Be Misinterpreted: Even innocent comments can be taken out of context and used against you.
• Partial Fault Rules in Florida: As Florida is not a pure comparative negligence state anymore but a modified one, any indication that you were more than 50% at fault for the accident could significantly impact your ability to recover damages.
• Lack of Legal Representation: Without a lawyer, you might not be aware of the full extent of your rights and the implications of what you say.

Practical Advice

• Contact an Attorney First: Before you give any statement, it’s wise to consult with us your personal injury attorney; we understand Florida’s laws and can guide you on the best course of action and your initial consultation is free.
• Avoid Detailed Statements: If you must communicate with the insurance company, keep your statements brief and factual. Avoid speculating or guessing about the accident or discussing details about your injuries or treatment.
• Consider Written Statements: Sometimes, providing a written statement can be safer as it allows you to carefully consider your words and consult with your attorney before submitting it.

The Role of Your Attorney

• Going Through Legal Complexities: Your attorney can handle negotiations and communications, ensuring that your best interests are represented.
• Gathering Evidence: They can also help gather evidence to support your claim, such as eyewitness statements, medical records, and accident reports.
• Assessing Compensation: An experienced lawyer can accurately assess the fair value of your claim, considering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Contact Us, At The Dash Cam Lawyer®

Deciding whether to state the property owner’s insurance company is a critical choice that should be taken seriously. At The Dash Cam Lawyer®, we’re committed to guiding you through these complex decisions with compassion and expertise. If you’re in Florida and facing this dilemma, don’t face it alone. Contact us at 561-DASHCAM or online for a free consultation. Our experienced team is here to protect your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.