After a car accident, it’s normal to feel shaken, disoriented and uncertain about what steps to take next. Among the first phone calls a person may receive is from an insurance company, but knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in the outcome of a personal injury claim.
While it might seem harmless to have a quick conversation, especially if the other driver appears clearly at fault, speaking with an insurance representative without preparation can carry serious risks. What may seem like casual, offhand remarks can later be used to undermine a person’s case. Understanding why this initial contact matter is key to protecting one’s legal and financial future.
Why caution matters
Insurance companies are usually not on the side of the injured. Their main goal is to protect their bottom line by limiting how much they have to pay out in claims, not to make sure you receive fair compensation. Although insurance adjusters might sound friendly and concerned, their job is to gather information that could potentially be used to devalue or deny a claim.
Even innocent statements, such as saying “I’m okay” or “maybe it was partly my fault” can later be used against your case. These kinds of remarks may later be twisted to suggest the injured person wasn’t seriously hurt or was even at fault, which can lead to reduced settlements or denied claims.
To avoid making a mistake that could hurt your claim, it’s usually best to let a legal representative handle all communication with the insurance company. This helps ensure that your words aren’t taken out of context and that your case is as strong as possible.
Before answering any questions from an insurance adjuster, it’s wise to pause and seek legal guidance. A brief conversation might seem like no big deal, but it can have lasting consequences.