Tips for Dealing with Insurance Adjusters

After an accident, an insurance adjuster may contact you within hours or days. They work for the insurance company, not for you. Knowing how to handle these interactions can protect the value of your claim.

What Is an Insurance Adjuster?

An insurance adjuster (also called a claims adjuster) is a professional employed by or contracted to an insurance company to investigate claims, determine coverage, and negotiate settlements. Their primary goal is to resolve claims for the least amount of money possible.

What Not to Say to an Insurance Adjuster

Be very careful with these common mistakes:

• Do not apologize or admit fault. Even a casual "I am sorry" can be used against you.
• Do not say you are "fine" or "feeling okay." Many accident injuries take days to fully manifest.
• Do not give a recorded statement without preparation. You generally are not legally required to give a recorded statement to the other party's insurance company.
• Do not accept the first offer. Initial settlement offers are almost always lower than what you may be entitled to — see how much your case may be worth.
• Do not sign any release until you understand the full extent of your injuries.

What You Are Required to Do

You are generally required to cooperate with your own insurance company. This may include providing a recorded statement. However, for the other party's insurance company, your obligations are more limited. You must not lie, but you do not need to volunteer extra information.

Understanding Tactics Adjusters Use

• Rushing you to settle: They may emphasize urgency to get you to accept before you know the full extent of your injuries.
• Minimizing injuries: They may suggest your injuries are minor or pre-existing.
• Asking leading questions: Questions designed to elicit admissions that reduce their liability.
• Offering quick cash: Small payments to close a claim before you know what you actually need.

How to Protect Yourself

• Get all medical treatment documented before discussing settlement
• Keep records of all missed work and lost wages
• Document all out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident
• Take photographs of your injuries throughout your recovery
• Do not post about the accident or your injuries on social media

When to Get Help

If an adjuster is pressuring you, making lowball offers, or disputing the cause of your injuries, contact NoLawyerHelp. We can connect you with resources to help you understand your rights, including how to file a car accident claim, and navigate the process more effectively.