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Car accidents are stressful enough without navigating tricky conversations with insurance adjusters. While these adjusters might seem friendly, their primary job is to save their company money — not to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. That’s why knowing what to say — and more importantly, what not to say — is crucial as a car accident lawyer can attest.
Protect Your Claim And Avoid These 8 Common Mistakes
Dealing with car insurance adjusters can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure how to handle their questions. To safeguard your claim, it’s essential to know what not to say. Below are the 8 Things You Shouldn’t Say to Car Insurance Adjusters, along with tips to help you navigate conversations confidently and avoid jeopardizing your settlement as shared by our friends at Traub Law Office.
- “It Was My Fault”
One of the things you should not say to car insurance adjusters is anything that admits fault. Even if you feel responsible, let your lawyer or the investigation process decide. Admitting fault too soon can hurt your chances of fair compensation.
- “I’m Not Hurt”
Injuries sometimes show up hours or days later, so don’t rush to say you’re fine. Telling the adjuster you’re uninjured might block you from getting future medical claims covered. Say you’ll get checked by a doctor instead.
- “I Think…” or Guessing Details
Avoid guessing about the accident details. Saying “I think” or guessing your speed could weaken your claim. Stick to what you clearly know to avoid confusion. Most people are terrible at estimating speed and distance when they are traveling at high speeds.
- “This Is My First Claim”
Don’t share your inexperience. Saying this could make you seem like an easy target for a low settlement. Stay neutral about your experience level to avoid giving adjusters the upper hand.
- “I Don’t Have a Lawyer”
If the adjuster knows you’re handling the claim alone, they might push harder for a low offer. Saying “I don’t have a lawyer” is one of the things you don’t want to say if you want to protect your claim.
- “I’ll Take Your First Offer”
Insurance adjusters often start with a low offer, hoping you’ll accept right away. Don’t take the first settlement without considering your repair costs, medical bills, and other damages. Evaluate before you agree.
- Sharing Your Full Medical History
Adjusters might use details from your past to downplay your injuries. Only discuss the injuries from the accident; sharing more than that is another one of the things you should never say to insurance adjusters.
- Agreeing To A Recorded Statement Without Preparation
If the adjuster asks for a recorded statement, politely decline until you’re ready. Being unprepared can lead to mistakes or inconsistencies. Preparing first, or consulting a lawyer, helps you stay in control of your statement.
Why Knowing The 8 Things You Shouldn’t Say To Car Insurance Adjusters Is Key
Understanding what not to say can make a huge difference in getting fair compensation. Adjusters are trained to save money, so following these tips can help protect your settlement.
Top Tips for Talking with Adjusters:
- Be Polite And Brief: Stay respectful, but don’t overshare.
- Document Every Conversation: Record details of every interaction and save emails.
- Consider Consulting A Car Accident Attorney: A lawyer can help you avoid mistakes and get the compensation you deserve.
When dealing with car insurance adjusters, it’s crucial to be careful with what you say. Knowing what not to say can prevent costly mistakes that might reduce your compensation. Adjusters are skilled at identifying any statements that could weaken your claim, so every word counts.
Remember, it’s in the adjuster’s best interest to minimize the payout, which often means they’ll look for any opportunity to lower the settlement. By being cautious, sticking to facts, and avoiding admissions or unnecessary details, you protect your claim from being unfairly reduced. If you have been in an accident, contact a lawyer near you before talking with an insurance adjuster.