The Key to Recorded Statements – Y, N, IDK

I generally tell motor vehicle accident personal injury clients to avoid making statements with the at-fault insurance company.  They aren’t the worst thing in the world, they’re just part of the routine.  But it’s also true that everything you say can be used against you by the carrier to avoid paying you fairly, so you have to be extra careful.

Whether I’m involved in the statement or not, the best rule for you to follow is this: The best answers are always Yes, No, or I don’t know.  This is the YNIDK Rule.

What I mean by that is that the best answer is the simplest answer.  If you can answer with one word or phrase, particularly Yes, No, or I don’t know, you don’t give the adjuster a lot to grab on to.  You see, what they’re hoping you’ll do is what most people do…ramble on until you say something that gives them something to work with (that’s bad for you) and then they get you to explore that.  When you just say Yes, No, or I don’t know, you limit that sort of fodder. Many of the questions asked won’t put you in a position to answer this way, but when you can, you should.

Remember, you don’t have to know everything.  It’s OK to say you don’t know.  Don’t feel bad.

Of course, you should avoid doing this on your own, and having a lawyer is crucial.  Call me for help.  919-929-2992.