After a car accident, speaking to an insurance company—especially the at-fault driver’s—can be tricky. The wrong words can reduce or even eliminate your right to compensation. While it’s important to report the incident promptly, knowing what not to say to insurance after an accident can make a major difference in your case’s outcome. “what not to say to insurance after an accident”
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line—not yours. So before you pick up the phone or respond to an email, review this guide on the statements and admissions to avoid after an accident.
Why Your Words Matter
What you say after an accident can be used against you—sometimes literally. Insurance companies record conversations, document statements, and scour for anything that could:
- Indicate you were at fault
- Suggest your injuries aren’t severe
- Reduce the value of your claim
- Undermine your credibility
Even if your intention is simply to be polite or cooperative, it’s easy to say something that sounds like an admission of guilt or downplays your pain.
Top Things You Should NEVER Say to Insurance
1. “I’m Sorry” or “It Was My Fault”
It’s human nature to apologize—even if something wasn’t your fault. But in the legal world, apologizing can be construed as an admission of liability. You may not yet know all the facts, or there could be shared fault or even external factors (e.g., malfunctioning traffic signals or weather conditions). Don’t assume responsibility.
Instead: Stick to the facts without assigning blame.
2. “I’m Not Injured” or “I Feel Fine”
Injuries like whiplash, concussions, and internal trauma often appear hours or even days later. Saying “I’m fine” too early can jeopardize your claim if injuries manifest after the fact.
Instead: Say you are seeking medical attention and will follow up once you know more.
3. “This Is What Happened…” (Giving a Statement Too Soon)
Adjusters will often pressure you to give a recorded statement early—sometimes the same day. But you might still be shaken up, in pain, or unclear on the details. A misstatement now can be used to contradict your later testimony.
Instead: Politely decline to give a recorded statement until you’ve spoken to an attorney.
4. “Yes, You Can Record Me”
Never consent to being recorded unless you’ve received legal advice. A recorded statement locks you into your version of events and can be twisted or taken out of context.
Instead: Say you’re not comfortable being recorded at this time.
5. “I Think…” or “Maybe…”
Speculation or guesswork has no place in accident reports or insurance conversations. You could unknowingly give inaccurate information that conflicts with witness accounts, police reports, or later evidence.
Instead: Only state what you know to be true. If you don’t know, say so.
6. “It Was Just a Fender Bender”
Calling the accident minor, even casually, minimizes its seriousness. The insurance company may then argue that your injuries couldn’t be serious or that medical treatment was unnecessary.
Instead: Describe the accident as a collision and let the evidence speak for itself.
7. “I Don’t Have a Lawyer”
Telling the insurance company you haven’t hired an attorney may signal that you’re vulnerable and can be manipulated. They may rush a lowball settlement or try to convince you not to seek representation.
Instead: If you don’t yet have a lawyer, just say you’re still assessing your options.
What You Should Say
While it’s important to avoid certain phrases, you also need to provide basic information. Here’s what you can safely say:
- Your name and contact information
- The time, date, and location of the accident
- The make and model of the vehicles involved
- That you are seeking medical evaluation
- That you will follow up after speaking with a legal professional
Tips for Communicating with Insurance Companies
- Stay calm and polite: Don’t argue or get emotional.
- Take notes: Record the time, date, and name of the representative you spoke with.
- Don’t discuss settlement amounts: The insurer may try to get you to agree to a low number quickly.
- Never sign anything without legal review: Especially medical releases or settlement agreements.
The Insurance Adjuster’s Job Isn’t to Help You
It’s worth repeating: insurance adjusters are trained professionals hired to reduce or deny claims. Even if they seem friendly, they are not on your side.
Their tactics may include:
- Creating a sense of urgency
- Downplaying the severity of your injuries
- Blaming you for part of the accident
- Offering quick cash before you understand your losses
Don’t fall for it. Take your time, protect your rights, and get professional guidance.
When to Contact a Lawyer
If any of the following apply to your case, contact a personal injury attorney immediately:
- You’ve suffered injuries that require medical treatment
- The insurance company is denying or delaying your claim
- You’re being pressured to give a recorded statement
- You’re unsure of your legal rights or how much your case is worth
Working with an attorney can prevent you from making costly mistakes—and help you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what not to say to insurance after an accident can preserve your ability to make a strong injury claim. Even a small misstep in wording can give insurers the opportunity to deny or reduce your compensation. When in doubt, keep your statements minimal, factual, and never admit fault or downplay your injuries.
Before talking to insurance, take a moment to protect your rights.
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