5 Things Accident Victims Should Never Say to an Insurance Adjuster (2024)

Insurance adjusters will come calling soon after a car accident. They may seem friendly and understanding, seeking information they need to resolve your claim. Accident victims will be asked to answer some questions to help the insurance company understand the nature of the accident and injuries and to determine how much compensation is warranted. What the adjuster won’t tell you, however, is that he is also seeking information that might undercut your claim and reduce his company’s liability. For this reason, accident victims should be extremely wary when talking with an insurance adjuster who might try using a victim’s own innocent comments against him. 5 Things Accident Victims Should Never Say to an Insurance Adjuster (1)

Avoid These Common Pitfalls When Talking to an Insurance Adjuster

While in some cases it may be necessary to discuss a claim with an insurance adjuster, Myrtle Beach accident victims are under no obligation to provide more than basic information. In any case, victims should avoid:

Admitting Fault, Even Partial Fault.

One of the main goals for an insurance adjuster is to shift blame from his insured to someone else, even the victim. Even if you think you may be partly at fault for the accident, do not discuss this with an adjuster. Avoid any language that could be construed as apologetic or blameful. Admitting any level of fault can eliminate or reduce the compensation that may be available.

Discussing Injuries and Prognosis.

Only a medical professional can provide an accurate view of injuries and the outlook for your recovery. It is possible that your health situation can change, with injuries worsening or new injuries discovered. It is enough to say that a victim is being treated by a doctor for injuries related to the accident.

Discussing the Circ*mstances of the Accident.

Stick to very basic details of the accident—the date, the time, the location, the vehicles involved, and the names of any witnesses. Even in casual conversation, avoid any further information or speculation. The adjuster can obtain the police report and speak to witnesses to determine the facts of the accident.

5 Things Accident Victims Should Never Say to an Insurance Adjuster (2024)

FAQs

5 Things Accident Victims Should Never Say to an Insurance Adjuster? ›

Some key phrases to avoid saying to an insurance adjuster include: “I'm sorry.” “It was all/partly my fault.” “I did not see the other person/driver.”

How long does it take to emotionally recover from a car accident? ›

The symptoms can last for many months or up to a year or more after the accident. Make sure that you give yourself time to heal from your physical and emotional injuries after a car accident. Do not rush your recovery. If you are concerned about symptoms of emotional distress, talk with your doctor immediately.

Why do I feel weird after a car accident? ›

Immediately after a car accident, and for several days afterwards, people usually experience being in shock. Shock can feel different for everyone, but common symptoms include feeling numb, being in emotional distress, continuing to feel afraid even though the event is over, or having unpredictable mood swings.

How to react after a car crash? ›

Keep yourself and others safe.

If you can't get out of your car — or it's not safe to try — keep your seatbelt fastened, turn on your hazard lights, then call 911 if possible and wait for help to arrive. If the collision seems to be minor, turn off your car and grab your emergency kit.

How to argue with an insurance adjuster? ›

Tips for Negotiating With an Insurance Claims Adjuster
  1. Come well-prepared with supporting evidence. Records and documentation are critical components of the process. ...
  2. Calculate a full settlement amount. ...
  3. Know your bottom line. ...
  4. Beware of the first offer. ...
  5. Get the settlement offer in writing. ...
  6. Read the fine print.
Feb 17, 2023

How to answer insurance adjuster questions? ›

Don't give more details than the basics. Avoid giving a narrative of the car accident. You may even decline a yes-or-no question if it pertains to how the collision occurred. Also, avoid telling the adjuster about your injuries.

Is anxiety after a car accident compensation? ›

If you suffer from anxiety following a car accident, you may be able to pursue compensation. Like with any other car accident claim, your solicitor must be able to prove the following to have a valid case: Another party owed you a duty of care. They breached this duty by acting negligently or recklessly.

How long does emotional shock last after an accident? ›

Emotional or psychological shock can last for days, weeks, or even months after an accident. The symptoms will vary from person to person. Some people may experience post-traumatic stress disorder after a car accident. Others may find it difficult to concentrate or remember things.

How long should anxiety last after a car accident? ›

Travel anxiety can make it difficult for victims to move past the car accident and continue traveling as before. These problems may last for only a few weeks or they could continue to haunt the victim for months or even years after the accident.

What is PTSD after a car accident? ›

Items meeting the diagnostic criteria for symptoms of PTSD were comprised of the following seven symptom clusters: (1) frequent, recurrent, re-experiencing of the event by intrusive, intense thoughts, flashbacks; physical reactions when thinking or reminded of the crash, (2) persistent avoidance and fear of stimuli ...

What is vehophobia? ›

Vehophobia is the fear of vehicles. This can include cars, trucks, buses, trains, and more. People with this phobia may feel anxious when they are around vehicles or when they think about them. They may also avoid driving or using public transportation.

What happens mentally after a car crash? ›

Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of civilian cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the United States. Car collisions can be extremely traumatic and mentally damaging, leading to feelings of panic, anxiety, and stress that cause the victim to suffer long after the collision is over.

Why am I so angry after car accident? ›

It is normal to feel anger after an accident. It's normal to be angry that someone else's carelessness hurt you. Serious injuries can completely change your life! It is natural to be angry for the life changes that were not your fault.

What not to say when talking to an insurance adjuster? ›

When describing an accident to an insurance adjuster, do not say anything beyond what you experienced directly. You do not want to speculate about what happened because you could accidentally blame yourself. The insurance company could then have a good excuse to reduce your compensation.

What not to say to a home adjuster? ›

However, if you do have to speak with the company's adjuster, here is what not to say to an insurance adjuster.
  • Don't Admit Fault. What should you not say in a claim? ...
  • Don't Downplay Damages. ...
  • Don't Give a Recorded Statement. ...
  • Don't Accept the Initial Settlement Offer.
Mar 22, 2023

What to say when making an insurance claim? ›

Give your name, address, policy number, and the date and time of your loss. Make sure to tell your insurance agent where you can be reached, especially if you are unable to stay in your home. Follow up the call with a letter detailing the problem. Keep a copy of the letter.

What is one of the most important responsibilities of a claims adjuster? ›

Claims adjusters inspect property damage to determine how much the company should pay for the loss. Claims adjusters, appraisers, examiners, and investigators evaluate insurance claims. They decide whether an insurance company must pay a claim and if so, how much.

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