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

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

Everyone's recovery is different. Some people will have strong emotional responses such as fear, sadness, guilt and anger (and other people won't). These feelings are usually brief and should begin to reduce in the days and weeks after the crash. After a car crash, 70% of people are back at work within eight weeks.

What not to say when filing a claim? ›

Don't admit fault. Don't say you aren't injured. If they ask, you should be adamant that you are not sure. Don't sign any release to release your medical records without checking with your lawyer.

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 argue with an insurance adjuster? ›

If you disagree with the insurance adjuster, it's crucial to gather supporting documents and consider consulting a car accident lawyer to help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the fair settlement you deserve.

How to answer insurance adjuster questions? ›

Guidelines for Answering Questions from an Insurance Company

Stick to the facts: Avoid giving an opinion about anything. Write down the adjuster's name and information for future reference. Do not guess answers: If you do not know the answer to a question, simply say so.

How long does your body stay in shock after an accident? ›

Physiological shock must be addressed immediately, or its effects can prove fatal. Psychological shock may pass in days or weeks with medical attention. However, conditions caused by your injuries could cause shock months or years after an accident. The symptoms of PTSD can also prove long-term, even with counseling.

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 should anxiety last after a car accident? ›

It is understandable to feel anxious and paranoid after a car accident. Many accident victims struggle with emotional distress. The symptoms of emotional distress can last for a few days or weeks after the accident. Some individuals may experience symptoms for several months or longer.

What are signs of PTSD from a car accident? ›

For many individuals, the symptoms of PTSD following a serious MVA may include psychologically re-experiencing the trauma (e.g., intrusive thoughts about the accident, distressing dreams about the accident), persistent avoidance of thoughts or situations associated with the accident (e.g., reluctance or refusal to ...

What are delayed symptoms after a car accident? ›

Two of the most frequently occurring car accident injuries, headache, and whiplash, may not be evident right after the collision occurs. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), victims may not experience symptoms of whiplash until several days after the accident.

What is emotional trauma after a car accident? ›

Data shows that between 25-33 percent of drivers display PTSD symptoms at least 30 days after a serious crash. Among accident survivors that suffer from PTSD, more than half have been shown to have mood disorders, and many have symptoms of a major depressive episode.

What not to say to an insurance investigator? ›

Admitting fault: Using apologetic language is enough for the insurance adjuster to assume you're admitting fault and use that against you. Even if you feel you're at fault, wait for the official investigation to prove what actually happened. Don't say things like “I'm sorry” or “it was my fault.”

Are claims adjusters biased? ›

Dealing With Insurance Adjusters

The insurance adjuster has only the best interests of their client in mind and will perform their duties with a certain degree of bias. Some insurance adjusters may even go as far as to employ bad faith tricks to lower the potential payout the insurance company has to deliver.

Do insurance adjusters follow you around? ›

While the insurance company may follow you at any time, there are certain times where it is most likely to occur. We typically see insurance companies conduct surveillance around claim-related appointments. These claim-related appointments could include IMEs or interviews with insurance representatives.

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