What should I not say to an insurance adjuster after a crash?
A car accident is a frightening experience that often comes with a rush of adrenaline and worry. After an accident, call the police, get to the emergency room, and document what occurred to you. At that point, you may need to contact the insurance adjuster to provide insight into what happened so you can seek compensation for your losses. Be careful with this process and follow our recommendations for what not to say to an insurance adjuster after a crash.
Our Lafayette Car Accident Lawyer can help you to navigate the legal rights you have in these matters. We can also handle all the conversations you must have with the insurance company to reduce the chance that you may say something jeopardizing your claim.
What not to say to insurance after an accident
In the initial conversation with a representative, there are a few things you should refrain from speaking to the insurance company. You do not want them to believe that you do not deserve compensation for your losses. Here are some specific things to avoid.
“I am fine.”
Do not make any claim about your health or that you have recovered. Do not let the insurance company think that what happened is over and done and that you are ready to move on. Most of the time, your injuries will be more long-lasting so you may need additional support.
“I did not see the person coming.”
After a crash, you do not want to give the insurance company, police, or anyone else the indication that you were not paying attention or were otherwise distracted, which resulted in the incident. For example, do not say, “I just looked at the GPS for a moment…” That may be interpreted as saying you were distracted and not paying attention to the road.
“I am sorry.”
When you say you are sorry, it is a statement that implies you feel that you were somewhat at fault in the case. Many times, the kindness of your heart may encourage you to simply apologize to the other person because of what occurred. However, an accident may result in nothing you did, and you do not want the other driver, the insurance company, or others to believe you were at fault.
“My injuries are not too bad.”
Leave all conversations about your injuries and how well you recover to your attorney, not the insurance company. They do not need to know anything but the facts. If you have a broken bone, tell them you have a broken bone. Do not tell them you are learning to drive a car with it or successfully relearning to walk. These details may reduce the amount of your claim.
“You can have my medical records.”
Do not just hand over your medical records. Instead, you want to be sure that you are providing only information that is necessary and deemed within their reach. Your Lafayette Car Accident Lawyer can advise you about what should or should not be shared with the insurance company.
Let our attorneys help you to navigate this process
What not to say to insurance after accidents is not always easy to understand. Phrases can be misinterpreted and put you at risk. To avoid that, meet with our Lafayette Car Accident lawyer at a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about what not to say to an insurance adjuster to protect your right to compensation.