You’ve just been in a car accident.
Maybe you’re sitting at home sore and shaken up. Maybe you’re still waiting for the police report. Maybe you haven’t even reported the claim to your insurance company yet.
Then suddenly your phone starts ringing.
A stranger says they can help you get a free medical exam. Another says they can get you a settlement. Someone else already knows details about your collision and starts asking questions.
How did they get your information?
Welcome to the world of ambulance chasing.
What Is Ambulance Chasing?
“Ambulance chasing” is a term used to describe lawyers, medical providers, or marketing companies that aggressively target injured people immediately after an accident.
While the stereotype is a lawyer running after an ambulance, modern ambulance chasing usually happens by phone, text message, social media, or mail.
The goal is simple: sign you up before you’ve had time to think.
The Police Report Problem
Many accident victims are shocked when strangers know details about their collision.
Unfortunately, some companies monitor police reports and accident databases looking for new crash victims.
Within days—or sometimes hours—you may receive calls from people you’ve never met claiming they can help with your injuries or insurance claim.
Some callers are lead-generation companies. Others are marketing companies working for attorneys or medical providers.
A Common Trick
One of the most common complaints I hear is:
“The caller made it sound like they were connected to my insurance company.”
Sometimes accident victims are told:
- “Your insurance wants you to get a free examination.”
- “We’re calling on behalf of your claim.”
- “We’re helping coordinate your benefits.”
- “We work with accident victims in your area.”
Many people assume the caller is affiliated with their insurance company when they are not.
If you’re ever unsure, hang up and call your insurance company directly using the number on your insurance card.
Red Flags
Be cautious if someone:
- Calls you unexpectedly after an accident.
- Already knows details about your collision.
- Pressures you to schedule treatment immediately.
- Tells you not to use your own doctor.
- Promises a specific settlement amount.
- Says you need to sign paperwork right away.
- Claims to be connected to your insurance company when they are not.
What Should You Do Instead?
After an accident:
- Report the claim to your insurance company.
- Seek treatment from providers you trust.
- Ask questions before signing anything.
- Research any attorney before hiring them.
- Get recommendations from friends, family, or professionals you know.
A good attorney doesn’t need to pressure you.
A good medical provider doesn’t need to trick you.
And nobody should make you feel rushed while you’re recovering from an injury.
My Advice
If someone contacts you after an accident and you don’t know exactly how they got your information, ask questions.
Who are they?
Who do they work for?
How did they get your information?
Are they affiliated with your insurance company?
You deserve honest answers.
The period after a collision is stressful enough without strangers trying to profit from your confusion.
Take your time. Do your research. Choose your own providers and advisors.
The decisions you make in the first few days after a collision can affect your recovery and your claim for months or even years afterward.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.
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