Your own insurance policy may require you to report the accident promptly and cooperate with your insurer. That’s different from talking to the other side’s insurance company. In Texas, you’re generally not required to give the at-fault party’s insurer a recorded statement, and anything you say can be used to dispute how the accident happened or how badly you were hurt.

Insurance adjusters are trained to be friendly, and they often call within days of an accident. They may ask for a recorded statement, ask you to sign a broad medical authorization, or offer a quick settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you usually can’t reopen the claim, even if you later need surgery or can’t return to work.

If you were hurt on the job, report the injury to your employer in writing as soon as possible. In Texas, you generally must report a work injury within 30 days to protect your right to workers’ compensation benefits. But a workers’ compensation claim may not be your only option. Contractors, property owners, and equipment manufacturers may also be responsible (see our refinery and industrial accident page).

In serious cases, like 18-wheeler crashes and catastrophic injuries, the companies involved often have insurers and defense lawyers working on the claim from day one. A Houston personal injury lawyer can handle all communication with the insurance If an insurance company has contacted you after a serious accident, talk to a lawyer before you respond. Contact Cammack Law Firm to schedule a free, confidential consultation.