Dealing with Insurance Adjusters After an Accident
After an accident, you’ll likely receive a call from an insurance adjuster—either from your own company or the at-fault driver’s insurer. While they may seem friendly and helpful, remember: their job is to minimize payouts, not maximize your compensation. Here’s how to protect yourself.
⚠️ Critical Rule
Never give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Anything you say can and will be used to reduce or deny your claim.
Who Is the Insurance Adjuster?
Insurance adjusters are trained professionals who investigate claims and determine payouts. There are two types you’ll encounter:
- Your Insurance Adjuster: Works for your insurance company (still prioritizes company profits)
- Other Driver’s Adjuster: Works for the at-fault driver’s insurance (actively trying to minimize your payout)
Common Insurance Adjuster Tactics
Tactic 1: The Friendly Approach
What they do: Act sympathetic, express concern for your well-being, build rapport.
Why it works: You let your guard down and share information that hurts your claim.
Tactic 2: The Quick Settlement
What they do: Offer a quick settlement before you know the extent of your injuries.
Why it works: You’re desperate for money and accept less than your case is worth.
Tactic 3: The Recorded Statement
What they do: Request a recorded statement “just to get your side of the story.”
Why it works: They twist your words to claim you admitted fault or exaggerated injuries.
Tactic 4: Requesting Medical Records
What they do: Ask you to sign a blanket medical release.
Why it works: They dig through your entire medical history looking for pre-existing conditions to blame.
Tactic 5: Delaying Your Claim
What they do: Request endless documentation, take weeks to respond, “lose” paperwork.
Why it works: You become desperate and accept a low offer just to end the process.
What to Say (and Not Say) to Insurance Adjusters
✓ DO Say:
- “I was in an accident on [date] at [location].”
- “I am seeking medical treatment.”
- “I will provide information through my attorney.”
- “I need time to assess my injuries.”
✗ DON’T Say:
- “I’m fine” or “I feel okay” (minimizes injuries)
- “I think I might have been speeding” (admits fault)
- “I didn’t see the other car” (suggests negligence)
- “I don’t think I need a lawyer” (makes you vulnerable)
- “I’ll accept your offer” (without attorney review)
Questions Adjusters Will Ask (And How to Respond)
“Can I record this conversation?”
Your response: “I’m not comfortable with that. I’ll provide information in writing through my attorney.”
“How are you feeling?”
Your response: “I’m still being evaluated by doctors and don’t know the full extent of my injuries yet.”
“Can you describe exactly what happened?”
Your response: “I was involved in an accident. The police report has the details. I’ll have my attorney contact you.”
“Do you have any pre-existing injuries?”
Your response: “My attorney will provide relevant medical information.”
When You MUST Talk to Your Own Insurance Company
Your insurance policy requires you to cooperate with your own insurer. You must:
- Report the accident promptly
- Provide basic facts (date, time, location)
- Submit to a recorded statement if required by your policy
- Allow them to inspect your vehicle
However: Even with your own insurer, stick to facts and avoid speculation. Consult an attorney before giving a recorded statement.
Red Flags: When an Adjuster Is Being Deceptive
- Pressuring you to settle quickly
- Claiming you don’t need a lawyer
- Offering to pay medical bills directly (to control your treatment)
- Suggesting you’re exaggerating injuries
- Blaming you for the accident
- Requesting unnecessary documentation
- Making verbal promises without written confirmation
How an Attorney Protects You
Once you hire an attorney:
- All communication goes through your lawyer
- No more harassing phone calls
- No risk of saying something that hurts your case
- Professional negotiation with insurance companies
- Protection from bad faith tactics
- Higher settlement amounts (even after attorney fees)
Document Everything
Keep detailed records of all interactions with insurance adjusters:
- Date and time of calls
- Adjuster’s name and contact info
- Summary of what was discussed
- Any offers made
- Documents requested or provided
Don’t Face Insurance Companies Alone
Free consultation. We handle all communication with insurance adjusters.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. Contact Shapiro Injury Law for a free consultation about your specific situation.