Insurance · 5 min read · Published May 2025
Should I Talk to the Insurance Adjuster After an Accident?
After an accident, the other driver's insurance company will contact you quickly — often within 24 hours. They will seem friendly and helpful. They are not. Understanding what insurance adjusters are trained to do, and how to protect yourself, is one of the most important things you can do for your claim.
The Adjuster's Job Is to Minimize Your Payout
Insurance adjusters are employees of the insurance company. Their performance is measured, in part, by how much they save the company on claims. They are trained to gather information that can be used to reduce or deny your claim — not to help you get fair compensation. This is not a criticism of them personally; it is simply the nature of their role.
What They're Trained to Do
Adjusters are trained to: call you quickly (before you've hired an attorney or fully assessed your injuries), ask open-ended questions to get you talking, use your own words against you, get you to accept a quick, low settlement before the full extent of your injuries is known, and record your statements without you realizing the implications. A recorded statement is a permanent record that can be used to contradict you later.
What You Should Say
You are required to cooperate with your own insurance company. For the other driver's insurer, you are generally not required to give a recorded statement. If you do speak with any adjuster, keep it brief: confirm the basic facts (date, location, vehicles involved) and nothing more. Do not speculate about fault. Do not describe your injuries in detail — they may worsen over time, and early minimization can hurt your claim.
What You Should Never Say
'I'm fine' or 'I'm okay' — even casually. 'I think it was partly my fault.' 'I wasn't paying full attention.' 'My injuries aren't that bad.' 'I don't really need to see a doctor.' Any of these statements can be used to reduce your compensation. Adrenaline masks pain — you may not know the full extent of your injuries for days.
The Quick Settlement Trap
Insurance companies often offer a quick settlement — sometimes within days of an accident. This offer almost always comes before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot go back for more money, even if you later need surgery or long-term treatment. Never sign anything without consulting an attorney.
Your Own Insurance Company
You have a duty to cooperate with your own insurer under your policy. However, even your own insurance company has interests that may not align with yours — particularly if you have uninsured motorist coverage and are making a claim against your own policy. Having an attorney represent you in all insurance dealings is the safest approach.
Key Takeaways
- The other driver's adjuster works for the insurance company, not you
- You are generally not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer
- Never say 'I'm fine' or admit any fault at the scene or to adjusters
- Never sign a settlement release without consulting an attorney
- Quick settlement offers almost always undervalue your claim
- Consult an attorney before giving any recorded statement
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I already gave a recorded statement?
Don't panic. Contact an attorney immediately. Recorded statements can sometimes be challenged or contextualized, but the sooner you get legal representation, the better your options.
Can I refuse to give a recorded statement?
To the other driver's insurance company: generally yes. To your own insurance company: your policy may require cooperation, which could include a recorded statement. Read your policy or consult an attorney.
What if the adjuster says I have to give a statement or my claim will be denied?
This is a pressure tactic. You have rights. Consult an attorney before agreeing to anything. An attorney can handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf.