After an accident, you may receive a call from an insurance adjuster asking for a recorded statement about what happened. They might seem friendly and helpful, but their job is to protect the insurance company’s interests. It’s important to remember that what you say to an adjuster can have a significant impact on your claim.
The adjuster’s goal is to gather information that could weaken your case, even if you are truthful and careful with your words.
To protect your rights and ensure fair compensation, it’s best to avoid giving a recorded statement without first consulting a personal injury attorney. This legal professional can guide you on how to communicate with the insurance company and ensure your case is handled properly.
Below, we’ll discuss why giving a recorded statement is risky and what you should do instead.
Adjusters Can Twist Your Words
One of the biggest risks of giving a recorded statement is that adjusters can take your words out of context. Even if you’re being honest, a simple misstep could be used against you.
Consider the examples below.
- Unclear wording: Statements like “I feel okay” can be interpreted as downplaying your injuries.
- Assumptions: Speculating about details you’re unsure of might be framed as factual.
- Admitting fault: Phrases like “I didn’t see the car” could be twisted to suggest you were responsible.
Insurance companies are trained to find ways to reduce or deny claims, and recorded statements give them a tool to do so.
You Might Not Know the Full Extent of Your Injuries
Right after an accident, it’s common not to know the full extent of your injuries. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, can take days or weeks to appear. If you give a recorded statement too soon, you might inadvertently downplay your condition.
Later, if your injuries worsen, the adjuster may use your earlier statement to argue that the accident didn’t cause your condition.
It’s Their Job to Minimize Payouts
Insurance adjusters are not on your side, no matter how friendly or understanding they seem. Their job is to protect the insurance company’s bottom line. This includes:
- Offering low settlements
- Denying liability
- Using your recorded statement to justify reducing your claim
By avoiding a recorded statement, you prevent them from having ammunition to undermine your case.
What Should You Do Instead?
If an adjuster asks for a recorded statement, you have the right to decline. Here’s what you should do:
- Stay polite but firm: Decline the request for a recorded statement and let them know you’ll provide information in writing.
- Refer them to your attorney: If you’ve hired a personal injury lawyer, direct all communication to them.
- Document everything: Keep records of all conversations with the insurance company, including dates, times, and what was discussed.
Your attorney can handle communications with the adjuster and ensure your case is presented in the strongest possible light.
Why It’s Important to Hire an Attorney
A personal injury lawyer can protect your rights and prevent you from making mistakes that could harm your claim. They can:
- Communicate with the insurance company on your behalf.
- Ensure you provide accurate, carefully-worded information.
- Advise you on what to say and what to avoid.
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t pay unless you win your case. Having a lawyer on your side can make all the difference in achieving a fair settlement.
Conclusion
Giving a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster might seem harmless, but it’s a risky move that can harm your claim. Adjusters are trained to use your words against you. Even a small mistake can reduce your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
Instead of giving a statement, protect yourself by hiring a lawyer. With the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer, you can navigate the claims process confidently and avoid common pitfalls.
Remember, you have the right to seek fair compensation for your injuries—don’t let an adjuster take that away from you.
