What to Say When the Insurance Company Calls
After an accident or injury, hearing from the insurance company might feel routine—but what you say on that call can have long-term consequences. The person on the other end may sound friendly, but their goal is to protect the company’s bottom line, not necessarily to help you.
Start by being polite but cautious
You can confirm your name, contact info, and the date of the incident, but you don’t need to go further right away. If the adjuster starts asking for details about how the accident happened or how you’re feeling, it’s okay to pause. You’re not required to answer everything on the spot, and you certainly don’t have to go into detail before you’re ready.
Avoid guessing or minimizing
One of the most common mistakes people make is downplaying how they’re feeling. Saying something like “I’m doing okay” can seem harmless, but it may be used to argue that your injuries aren’t serious. On the flip side, guessing or speculating about what happened—especially when you’re still processing it—can open the door to misinterpretation later.
Don’t give a recorded statement right away
If they ask to record the call, you can decline or ask to reschedule. A simple response like “I’d prefer to speak with my lawyer before giving a recorded statement” is more than enough. Once something is on record, it can be replayed and dissected—and sometimes, innocent comments get twisted or taken out of context.
Never admit fault
Even casual phrases like “I didn’t see them” or “maybe I was going too fast” can be viewed as admissions. It’s human nature to want to be polite or take some of the blame, but in legal terms, that can have consequences. Stick to what you know and avoid making assumptions or accepting fault.
It’s okay to ask for more time
If you’re caught off guard or feeling unsure, there’s nothing wrong with asking to continue the conversation later. Say something like, “I’m not in a position to speak right now—can I get back to you once I’ve had time to review things?” Taking time to prepare is a smart move that helps you avoid saying something that could affect your claim.
Why having legal guidance matters
Insurance adjusters work for the insurer, not for you. They’re trained to gather information in ways that might limit what you receive. Having someone in your corner—especially early on—can make a big difference in how your claim is handled.
If you’re feeling unsure about how to deal with an insurance call after an accident, you’re not alone. At Hilborn and Konduros, we can help you navigate these conversations, protect your rights, and make sure you’re not taken advantage of. Reach out to us before you speak to the insurer—we’ll make sure you’re prepared.
