After a car accident, one of the first calls you’ll receive is from an insurance adjuster. They may sound friendly and helpful, but remember, their job is to protect the insurance company, not you.
Many accident victims unknowingly say things that weaken their claims or even cost them thousands in compensation. Here’s a list of the top mistakes to avoid when speaking to insurance adjusters, and what you should do instead to protect your rights.
1. Admitting Fault, Even Partially
It’s human nature to be polite after a stressful event. You might say “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see the other car” without realizing it sounds like an admission of fault.
Insurance adjusters can use these words against you. Even if you weren’t to blame, any hint that you were “partly responsible” can reduce or eliminate your claim value.
What to do instead:
Stick to the facts, where it happened, when it happened, and who was involved. Never speculate or guess.
2. Giving a Recorded Statement Too Soon
Adjusters often ask to record your statement early, sometimes within hours of the crash. They’ll say it’s “for accuracy”, but it’s really to lock in your version of events before you fully understand your injuries.
If you later realize new symptoms or details, the insurer may claim you’re changing your story.
What to do instead:
Politely decline to give a recorded statement until you’ve spoken to a personal injury lawyer.
3. Underestimating or Downplaying Your Injuries
Many victims say things like, “I’m okay” or “It’s not that bad,” only to discover serious pain days later. Once you make that statement, insurers can use it to argue your injuries aren’t real or significant.
What to do instead:
Always get a medical evaluation and describe your condition honestly, not optimistically.
4. Accepting the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often rush to offer a settlement before the full extent of your injuries and expenses is known. It might seem like quick relief, but these early offers are almost always far below what your case is worth.
What to do instead:
Consult a car accident lawyer who can calculate your true damages, including medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care.
5. Giving Too Much Personal Information
Adjusters may ask for access to your entire medical history or employment records, claiming it’s “routine.” Don’t be fooled. They’re looking for anything that can reduce or deny your claim, such as pre-existing injuries.
What to do instead:
Only share documents relevant to the accident. Let your lawyer handle all requests for records.
6. Guessing or Speculating About Details
Never try to fill in missing details. Saying “I think” or “I guess” gives insurers room to twist your words. If you don’t know something, simply say, “I’m not sure.”
What to do instead:
Keep your statements factual, concise, and limited to what you personally know.
7. Ignoring or Delaying Legal Help
Some victims wait too long before contacting a lawyer, assuming the insurance company will “do the right thing.” Unfortunately, that rarely happens.
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, even when liability is clear.
What to do instead:
Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. They’ll handle all communications, preserve evidence, and negotiate for fair compensation.
What You Should Say to Insurance Adjusters
If you must talk to an adjuster, keep it short and simple:
- Confirm your name, contact info, and policy number.
- Provide the basic facts (time, date, location).
- Politely decline to discuss fault or injuries.
- Refer all further questions to your lawyer.
This ensures you stay compliant while protecting your claim.
Final Thoughts
Talking to insurance adjusters after an accident can be risky if you don’t know their tactics. One wrong statement could cost you your rightful compensation.
Before you speak to any insurer, know your rights and get professional guidance.👉 Get a Free Case Evaluation today to learn what to say (and what not to say) after your accident.
