Expert: Charlie Barone - 8/20/2009

Question
I just caused an accident where I rear-ended another vehicle both while in motion on a highway in the same direction. The impact was quite severe causing the car I hit to flip onto it's side. I received a citation for "reckless driving" and was told by the police officer that it is "standard protocol" (Philadelphia PD). I have notified my insurance company, but I have not yet made the requested recorded statement. During the phone call with the insurance company, they advised me that based on the facts I provided regarding the accident, they will accept responsibility. I will go to court for the citation and will probably have an attorney represent me, but should I secure the services of an attorney prior to making the recorded statement?

Answer
While this is a legal question and not within my expertise, I will tell you what I know. Your insurer will pay for a lawyer if you get sued, but I think it may be an unnecessay expense to to get one to make the recorded statement. If you are going to hire an attorney anyway, one might advise you with respect to the phone statement and include it in his fee.