What Not to Say to an Insurance Adjuster

After an accident, you may feel shaken for days, especially if you’re seriously injured. Although you won’t be at your best, you’ll likely be contacted by an insurance adjuster within 24-48 hours after the crash.

What you say to an adjuster affects your chances of recovering compensation. Because insurance companies try to pay out as little as possible, they might use your words to reduce or deny payment.

Read on to learn what common pitfalls and phrases to avoid, so you can protect your right to a fair settlement.

The Role of the Insurance Adjuster

An insurance adjuster evaluates claims and determines settlement amounts based on their company’s policies. While adjusters may seem friendly and supportive, they represent the insurance company’s interests—not yours.

An adjuster’s questions clarify details and gather information about the accident. However, they can also establish fault, look for language that could downplay your injuries, and identify any inconsistencies in your account.

For instance, an adjuster may ask friendly questions like, “How are you feeling now?” or “Have you been able to return to work?” While these appear harmless, your responses can be used to reduce your settlement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Conversations With an Adjuster

Respond truthfully to protect your claim and avoid these common pitfalls:

• Admitting Fault: Never admit fault or imply you may have contributed to the accident. For example, saying “I didn’t see the motorcycle” could be taken as an admission of guilt.
• Providing Too Little or Too Much Information: Giving an incomplete account of the incident can lead to perceived discrepancies that harm your claim. On the other hand, you should stick to the facts and avoid speculating about what happened.
• Lying or Exaggerating: While insurance adjusters are not necessarily “on your side,” you should avoid providing a false account of the events or exaggerating your damages. They will likely investigate the accident to determine the accuracy of your claims.
• Minimizing Your Injuries: Avoid brushing off your injuries, as some symptoms, like whiplash, may take time to appear. Saying you’re “fine” or only “a little sore” could be used later to challenge the severity of your injuries.
• Accepting a Quick Settlement: Adjusters may offer a fast, low settlement, appealing to your desire to put the accident behind you. However, you should wait until you completely understand all your damages and injuries. Always treat initial offers as too low, as they are unlikely to cover 100% of your expenses in the long term.

Protecting Your Rights After an Accident

Missouri follows a fault system called pure comparative negligence, meaning accident victims can seek compensation for their injuries even if they are 99% at fault. However, protecting your rights and maximizing your potential settlement requires taking the proper steps.

• Document the Incident: Take photos at the accident scene, collect witness statements, and keep detailed records of any medical treatment and expenses. Gathering documentation related to the accident and your damages is essential to support your claim and demonstrate that the compensation you’re seeking is justified.
• Know Your Policy: Familiarize yourself with what your insurance policy covers, what it doesn’t, and how to file a claim.
• Limit Communication: Keep your answers brief with the adjuster. Avoid any unsolicited information that could be used against you.
• Get Legal Advice: An experienced St. Louis car accident attorney can protect your rights and ensure you don’t fall victim to common insurance tactics.

Effective Negotiation With Insurance Adjusters

Insurance negotiations can be complicated. Many adjusters are trained to pressure you or use tactics to convince you to accept a lower settlement than you may be entitled to. Hiring a lawyer gives you an advocate and sends a strong signal to the insurance company that you’re serious about receiving fair compensation.

An experienced lawyer helps you counter these tactics and prevents your statements from being misinterpreted or used to reduce your claim. With a lawyer’s guidance, you can protect your rights and maximize your settlement.

Cofman Townsley Can Protect Your Rights

Knowing what not to say to an insurance adjuster is vital after an accident. Fortunately, the St. Louis car accident attorneys at Cofman Townsley can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation. Contact us for a free consultation and ensure your claim is handled with the expertise it deserves.