What NOT to Say to Insurance Adjusters

Understanding the Adjuster's Role

Insurance adjusters seem friendly and helpful, but their job is to save the insurance company money. They will:

• Look for reasons to deny or reduce your claim
• Use your words against you
• Pressure you to settle quickly for less
• Downplay the severity of your injuries
• Question your version of events

Never Say These Things

1. "I'm fine" or "I'm not hurt"

Why it's dangerous: Injuries often don't appear immediately. Adrenaline masks pain. Saying you're fine can be used to deny injury claims later.

Say instead: "I'm still being evaluated by my doctor" or "I'm seeking medical attention."

2. "I'm sorry" or "It was my fault"

Why it's dangerous: This is an admission of liability. Even if you think you're at fault, there may be factors you don't know about.

Say instead: Stick to facts only. "I was traveling north on Main Street when the collision occurred."

3. "I think..." or "I guess..."

Why it's dangerous: Speculation and uncertainty make you seem unreliable and can be twisted to support the insurance company's version.

Say instead: Only state what you know for certain. If you don't remember, say "I don't recall."

4. Detailed descriptions of the accident

Why it's dangerous: You might misremember details or contradict yourself later. Adjusters will use inconsistencies against you.

Say instead: "I've filed a police report that contains the details" or "I'd like to review my notes before discussing specifics."

5. "I didn't see the other car"

Why it's dangerous: This can be used to claim you were negligent or not paying attention.

Say instead: Describe what you did see without admitting what you didn't.

6. Information about your income or job

Why it's dangerous: They may use this to minimize lost wage claims or argue you can afford to wait for payment.

Say instead: "That information will be provided through proper documentation."

7. Details about pre-existing injuries

Why it's dangerous: They'll try to blame your current pain on old injuries to reduce your claim.

Say instead: "My medical records will show my condition before and after the accident."

8. "I'll accept your offer"

Why it's dangerous: First offers are almost always too low. Once you accept, you can't get more money later—even if you discover additional damage or injuries.

Say instead: "I need time to review this with my attorney" or "I'll need to consider this."

9. Social media or personal information

Why it's dangerous: Adjusters check social media. Any posts showing you active or happy can be used to claim you're not really injured.

Say instead: Don't discuss your accident or injuries on social media at all.

10. "I don't have an attorney"

Why it's dangerous: They know you're easier to lowball without legal representation.

Say instead: "I'm considering my options" or simply don't mention it.

What You SHOULD Say

Provide Only Basic Information

You must provide:

• Your name and contact information
• Date, time, and location of accident
• Names of other drivers and witnesses
• Your insurance policy number

Use These Safe Responses

• "I'm still receiving medical treatment"
• "I need to review the police report first"
• "I'd like to consult with an attorney before discussing that"
• "I don't recall those specific details"
• "I'll provide that information in writing"
• "I'm not comfortable answering that right now"

Recorded Statements: Just Say No

You Are NOT Required to Give a Recorded Statement

Adjusters will pressure you to give a recorded statement. You have the right to refuse.

Why Recorded Statements Are Dangerous

• You're stressed and may misspeak
• You don't know the full extent of your injuries yet
• They'll ask leading questions designed to trap you
• Anything you say can be used to deny your claim
• You can't take back or clarify statements later

How to Decline

Say: "I'm not comfortable giving a recorded statement at this time. I'll provide a written statement after consulting with my attorney."

Red Flags: When Adjusters Are Playing Games

Watch Out For These Tactics

• Rushing you: "This offer expires today"
• Befriending you: Acting overly friendly to get you to let your guard down
• Minimizing injuries: "It was just a fender bender"
• Blaming you: Suggesting you're partially at fault
• Requesting unnecessary info: Asking for medical records unrelated to the accident
• Delaying tactics: Taking weeks to respond, hoping you'll give up

When to Get an Attorney

Consider legal help if:

• You suffered significant injuries
• The insurance company denies your claim
• They're offering far less than your damages
• Fault is disputed
• Multiple parties are involved
• You're being pressured or treated unfairly

Final Tips

• ✓ Be polite but firm
• ✓ Take notes during every conversation
• ✓ Get everything in writing
• ✓ Don't sign anything without reading carefully
• ✓ Keep copies of all documents
• ✓ Don't let them rush you
• ✓ Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, get help