How to Deal with Insurance Adjusters
Insurance adjusters are trained professionals working to minimize what the company pays you. Learn their tactics and how to protect yourself.
📞 Get Professional Help: (818) 482-2260⚠️ Common Insurance Adjuster Tactics
Know what to watch out for and how to respond.
🎯 The Quick Settlement Offer
Offering a fast settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries.
Your Defense: Never accept the first offer. Wait until you know your complete medical costs and long-term prognosis.
🎯 Recorded Statement Request
Asking for a "routine" recorded statement to use your words against you.
Your Defense: You're NOT legally required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer. Politely decline.
🎯 Playing the Friendly Helper
Acting like they're on your side and just want to "help" you.
Your Defense: Remember: their job is to pay you as little as possible. Be polite but guarded.
🎯 Minimizing Your Injuries
Suggesting your injuries aren't serious or pre-existed the accident.
Your Defense: Document everything with medical records. Don't discuss the extent of injuries without documentation.
🎯 Delaying Tactics
Slow-walking your claim hoping you'll get desperate and accept less.
Your Defense: Keep detailed records of all communications. Note unreasonable delays and consider legal help.
🎯 Blaming You for the Accident
Trying to establish partial fault to reduce your payout.
Your Defense: Never admit any fault. Stick to factual statements and let the evidence speak.
What to Say vs. What NOT to Say
✅ Safe to Say
- ✓Your name, address, and contact information
- ✓Your attorney's contact information (if you have one)
- ✓General facts: date, time, and location of accident
- ✓Names of others involved (but not detailed statements)
- ✓"I'm still under medical treatment" (if true)
- ✓"I'll need to review that with my attorney"
❌ Never Say
- ✗"I'm fine" or "I feel okay" (injuries may appear later)
- ✗"I'm sorry" or any admission of fault
- ✗Detailed descriptions of your injuries
- ✗Specific dollar amounts you'll accept
- ✗Permission to access all your medical records
- ✗Anything about your social media activity
- ✗"I don't have a lawyer" (they may pressure you more)
💡 Pro Tips from Experienced Attorneys
Document Everything
Keep a log of every call: date, time, adjuster name, and what was discussed. Follow up phone calls with written confirmation.
Communicate in Writing
Email and letters create a paper trail. If you must talk by phone, take detailed notes immediately after.
Don't Rush to Settle
You typically have 2 years (in California) to file a claim. Take time to understand your full injuries and damages.
Know When to Get Help
If your claim is denied, delayed, or you're offered a lowball settlement, it's time to consult an attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to talk to the other driver's insurance company?
No, you are not legally required to speak with the other driver's insurance company. You may simply refer them to your attorney or state that you will provide a written statement later.
Should I give a recorded statement?
Generally, no. You're not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer. Your words can be twisted and used against you. Consult an attorney first.
What if the adjuster seems very nice and helpful?
Being friendly is part of their training. Remember, their job is to save the insurance company money by minimizing your claim. Stay polite but protect your interests.
Can I negotiate with the insurance adjuster myself?
You can, but studies show that accident victims who hire attorneys typically receive significantly higher settlements, even after attorney fees.
What if they request access to my medical records?
Be very careful about signing medical release forms. Only release records directly related to the accident injuries, not your entire medical history.
Tired of Fighting the Insurance Company?
Let our experienced attorneys handle the adjusters while you focus on recovery. Free consultation, no fee unless we win.
📞 Get Expert Help: (818) 482-2260