After an accident, speaking with an insurance adjuster can be a delicate task. What you say—or don’t say—can significantly impact the outcome of your personal injury claim. Insurance adjusters are not just there to collect information—they represent the insurance company’s financial interests. One wrong statement can affect your payout, damage your claim, or even be used to deny liability altogether.
At Multani Law Group, we understand how intimidating and confusing the insurance claims process can be. This article breaks down what not to say to an insurance adjuster, why it matters, and how you can protect yourself from common pitfalls when dealing with an insurance company after a car crash, truck accident, or any other personal injury.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Speaking to an Insurance Adjuster
Insurance claims adjusters are trained to extract information that may limit the company’s liability or reduce your settlement offer. As accident victims, it’s important to avoid these common missteps when discussing your personal injury case.
1. Admitting Fault or Saying “I’m Sorry”
It might feel natural to express sympathy after an accident by saying “I’m sorry.” However, even a simple apology can be construed as an admission of fault. In states like Washington and Texas, where comparative fault laws apply, any admission—even partial—can significantly reduce your compensation or invalidate your claim altogether.
Instead, stick to the facts and let the police report and evidence determine who was at fault. Never speculate or offer personal opinions about the accident.
2. Downplaying Your Injuries
Many accident victims instinctively minimize their pain or injuries, saying things like, “I’m okay” or “It’s not that bad.” While this may seem polite, these comments can hurt your case by suggesting that your injuries are minor or nonexistent.
Often, the extent of your injuries is not fully known until after proper medical evaluation. You may have underlying conditions or delayed symptoms that only emerge after initial treatment. Always seek prompt medical treatment and avoid making any definitive statements about your health.
Don’t Provide a Recorded Statement Without Legal Advice
One of the most common requests from an insurance company is for a recorded statement. While it may seem like a routine step in the claims process, this is one of the most dangerous traps accident victims fall into.
Why It’s Risky:
- Adjusters may ask leading or confusing questions designed to get you to say something harmful to your case.
- Anything you say can be used to dispute your version of events later.
- Statements given early on may conflict with medical records or other evidence that emerges later, undermining your credibility.
What You Should Do:
Politely decline to provide a recorded statement and inform the adjuster that your personal injury attorney will handle communications. You are under no legal obligation to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance provider.
Be Cautious When Sharing Medical Records or Personal Information
After a car accident, an adjuster may ask for access to your complete medical records. While some disclosure is necessary to support your injury claims, granting unlimited access can backfire.
Insurance companies often search your full medical history to:
- Find pre-existing conditions to blame for your current pain.
- Argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed.
- Reduce or deny your personal injury claim based on unrelated past conditions.
Protect Yourself:
- Share only the medical records directly related to your car accident case.
- Consult your car accident lawyer before signing any medical release forms.
- Never disclose sensitive personal information—such as unrelated health conditions, work history, or your insurance policy details—without legal advice.
Watch What You Say About the Accident Timeline or Property Damage
Insurance adjusters may ask for a detailed timeline or sequence of events. While some basic information may seem harmless, providing too much detail can create inconsistencies. Similarly, comments about property damage or the impact of the crash may be used against you.
For example:
- Saying “I didn’t see the other car” could be twisted into an admission of fault.
- Minimizing the damage to your vehicle may be used to question the seriousness of your injuries.
Keep your answers factual, limited, and refer them to your attorney whenever necessary.
Never Accept the First Settlement Offer Without Legal Review
It’s common for insurance companies to offer a quick settlement offer shortly after a car accident—often before you’ve completed medical treatment or fully understand the pain and suffering you’re entitled to.
These early offers are usually much lower than what your case is truly worth. Accepting one prematurely can prevent you from seeking additional compensation later for:
- Ongoing medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death (in fatal cases)
Always consult a personal injury lawyer to evaluate any offer and ensure you receive a fair settlement that reflects the full scope of your losses.
Tips to Maintain Your Rights and Protect Your Claim
Here are some actionable tips to help you handle interactions with an insurance claims adjuster without jeopardizing your personal injury case:
- Get Legal Representation Early: Having a car accident attorney from the start ensures that your rights are protected and no harmful statements are made.
- Avoid Informal Chats: Even casual conversations can be recorded or noted. Be cautious with what you say and avoid small talk.
- Don’t Share on Social Media: Posts, photos, or comments about your car crash, recovery, or lifestyle can be used to challenge your injury claims.
- Document Everything: Keep records of your medical bills, property damage, and every communication with the insurance company.
- Don’t Provide Your Phone Number Repeatedly: Giving out your contact information to multiple adjusters or parties can lead to confusion and pressure tactics.
- Consult Before Signing Anything: Whether it’s a release form, disclaimer, or settlement agreement, always get legal advice first.
How Multani Law Group Can Help You Navigate Insurance Communications
At Multani Law Group, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with an insurance adjuster after a car crash or truck accident. With over 30 years of combined experience, our law offices in Kent, Washington have helped countless accident victims protect their rights, secure fair compensation, and avoid the pitfalls of the insurance claims process.
Why Choose Us?
- We offer free consultations to assess your personal injury case.
- Our team provides direct and compassionate communication throughout the process.
- We will handle all negotiations and protect you from lowball payout offers.
- You’ll have a committed personal injury attorney who will prioritize your needs and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Whether you’re dealing with an auto insurance dispute, an at-fault driver’s carrier, or complex injury claims, we’re here to make sure your voice is heard and your future is protected.
Contact Multani Law Group Today for a Free Case Review
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident or suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence, don’t go up against the insurance company alone. Let the car accident lawyers at Multani Law Group stand by your side, manage the legal complexities, and secure the justice you deserve.
Serving clients across Washington, including Seattle and other nearby cities including Bellevue, Bremerton, Burien, Everett, Kent, Lynwood, Olympia, Puyallup, Renton, Tacoma, and Tukwila.
Contact Information: Reach out to our law firm in Kent, WA, for a free consultation and personalized legal representation.