The Wrong Words Can Cost You Thousands
After a crash, your phone rings. It’s the insurance adjuster, polite, friendly, and asking just a few “routine questions.” You want to be helpful. You want to be honest. And before you know it, you’ve just said something that could cost you your entire case.
It happens all the time. In fact, one study found that injury victims who handle claims alone often receive significantly less than those who use professional representation, even when their cases are just as strong.
The reason? Insurance adjusters are trained to listen for specific words and phrases that weaken your claim. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the biggest mistakes people make when talking to adjusters, what to say instead, and how to protect your case from the very start.
Why So Many People Stay Quiet After an Accident
After an accident, a lot of people hesitate to speak up or ask for help. Maybe you’re worried about seeming dramatic, or maybe you’re afraid of being seen as the “suing type.” That hesitation is common, and completely understandable.
But here’s the truth: Insurance companies are counting on that hesitation.
You might be telling yourself “I just want to move on” or “I’ll wait and see how I feel in a few days.” It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. But silence or uncertainty can be taken as weakness, and unfortunately, the insurance company is trained to take full advantage of that. You’re not being greedy by protecting your future. You’re being smart.
Why Insurance Adjusters Sound Friendly (But Aren’t Actually on Your Side)
Adjusters are skilled at sounding casual and concerned. They might offer sympathy, mention how “routine” this process is, or say they just need a few clarifying details to wrap things up quickly.
But behind that kindness is a job description: close claims quickly, and for the lowest possible payout.
Here’s what that looks like in action:
- Asking for a recorded statement early, before you know the extent of your injuries.
- Offering a fast settlement, hoping you’ll take less before your real bills come in.
- Phrasing questions to make you speculate, admit fault, or minimize your pain.
- Making it seem like you have to cooperate right now, or you’ll lose your chance.
Their goal is to protect their bottom line, not your long-term well-being. That’s why it’s so important to stay cautious.
5 Innocent Phrases That Can Wreck Your Case
It doesn’t take a dramatic confession to damage your claim. Often, it’s the casual, off-hand comments that adjusters use against you. Here are five things you should never say to an insurance adjuster:
- “I’m fine” or “I feel okay.”
Even if you’re trying to be polite or optimistic, this can be used to suggest you weren’t injured, or that your injuries are minor. - “It was probably my fault.”
You may think you’re being honest, but you likely don’t have all the facts yet. Let the evidence speak for itself. - “I didn’t see them coming.”
This could imply inattention, even if the other driver was clearly at fault. - “I don’t think I need a doctor.”
Many serious injuries (like whiplash or concussions) don’t show symptoms right away. Saying this can weaken future claims. - “I just want this over with.”
That tells the adjuster you’re desperate, which makes you more likely to accept a lowball offer.
What to Say Instead: Protecting Yourself Without Sounding Suspicious
You don’t have to be rude, silent, or confrontational to protect your rights. You just need to set boundaries.
Here are some safe, clear alternatives:
- “I’m still evaluating my injuries and will follow up once I know more.”
- “I’m not comfortable giving a recorded statement right now.”
- “All communication can go through my representative.”
These aren’t evasions, they’re responsible ways to make sure you’re giving accurate information and not being pressured into early decisions.
Don’t Take the First Settlement Offer
Why not? After an accident, money stress can hit fast. Medical bills, missed work, car repairs, it adds up quickly. So when the insurance company offers a settlement check, it’s tempting to take it and move on.
But most early settlement offers are far below what you actually need. They may not account for:
- Ongoing medical treatment
- Lost future income
- Long-term pain or disability
- Emotional trauma
Once you accept an offer, you usually sign away your right to ask for more, even if your injuries turn out to be worse than you thought. That’s why it’s essential to wait until you fully understand the impact of the accident.
How a Legal Team Can Handle the Hard Parts for You
You don’t have to fight with adjusters, argue over paperwork, or guess what your case is worth. A legal team can:
- Communicate directly with the insurance company
- Help gather the right evidence
- Keep you from saying anything that could hurt your claim
- Maximize your compensation based on long-term needs
And no, you don’t need to worry that involving a legal team will make things “worse.” In reality, it’s one of the best ways to ensure you’re treated fairly and don’t leave money on the table.
Final Thoughts: Your Words Matter More Than You Think
After an accident, everything you say to an insurance adjuster is part of your case. That doesn’t mean you have to be afraid, it just means you should be informed and careful.
You don’t have to go it alone. You don’t have to take the first offer. And you definitely don’t have to say more than you’re comfortable with.
Let someone who knows the system handle the hard parts for you.
Need Help Talking to the Insurance Company?
Let Williams DeLoatche, P.C. be your voice. Our team understands how the system works, and how to protect your rights while you focus on healing. Call 757-547-5555 today to schedule your free, no-pressure consultation and find out what your case is really worth.