After a car accident, you may feel like the belle of the ball—everyone needs to talk with you and they are all clamoring for your contact and personal information. Soon, your phone is ringing off the hook as you juggle calls and requests from your own insurance company, the other driver’s insurance company, and any parties involved in your medical recovery or auto body repair.
When insurance companies call you and request your name, date of birth, and other identifying information, it may seem like they just need that information to make sure that you are who you claim to be. You may be surprised to learn, however, that the information you provide them can open up your entire claims history for them to view, which can equate to opening a big can of worms.
How Can Insurers See Your Auto Insurance Claims History?
While you may have several years and maybe even a few different insurers between your last accident and your current one, the insurance company will undoubtedly find out about it during the process of filing your new claim. Insurers have access to a national claims database, known as the Index System, which will show any prior claim you have made in the last two decades, including auto damage, bodily injury, homeowners’ insurance claims, as well as workers’ compensation claims.
Why do your prior claims matter to the insurance company? These insurers are businesses that are looking to protect their bottom line, and they will be looking closely at your prior claims to see if you have injuries or conditions that could possibly allow them to deny your claim outright or offer you a significantly lower settlement for your damages.
Talk to an Attorney Before Speaking With the Other Drivers’ Insurance Carrier
After you have been in an accident, it is critical that you speak with an experienced auto accident attorney before you speak with the other drivers’ insurance company. An attorney can help you mitigate the damage that your prior claims could do to your case, and help you navigate the legal process from filing through trial, if the situation should require.
If you have been hurt in a wreck, you may be entitled to significant compensation. To discuss your case further, call attorney Chris Hudson or click on the live chat link to schedule your free consultation today.