Mistakes when dealing with insurers
An insurer has called or will call, and you want to avoid saying the wrong thing.
Most problems with insurers come from small habits during ordinary calls and paperwork. Each has a simple fix.
Giving too much detail too soon
A long statement given before your treatment is understood can lock in an account that later needs correcting. A short, honest summary is enough for a first report. See reporting the accident to insurers.
Guessing at fault, speed or distance
When asked directly, do not offer an opinion. Stick to what you observed and leave fault to the evidence and the police report.
Not keeping a record of what was said
Calls and messages can blur together over weeks while you recover. Note the date, the person’s name and a one-line summary of each contact. It protects you if a disagreement comes up later. Follow up important calls with a short message so the wording is on record.
Agreeing because it feels easier
Repair arrangements, settlement figures or forms offered on a call rarely need an instant answer. Ask for time and get anything important confirmed in writing.
Forgetting who the adjuster represents
A loss adjuster can be pleasant and still work for the insurer, not for you. Be cooperative and careful at the same time.
What to do instead
Keep answers short and factual, note every contact and take time before agreeing. If a settlement figure is offered, before you accept a settlement offer and the claim process cover what to check.
If the adjuster has asked you to sign or record something, an independent lawyer can act for you and handle those exchanges. Send the accident date, where it happened, whether anyone was injured (yes/no) and the police report status.
Need a lawyer to handle your injury claim?
For people seeking legal representation. For general information, please use our guides and tools.
Common questions
Is it a mistake to give a detailed statement straight away?
It can be, before your injuries are understood. A short, factual account is enough at first. Add detail once the picture is clear.
Should I speculate about fault if the insurer asks directly?
No. Describe what you observed and let the police report and evidence answer. A guess under pressure can differ from what happened.
Is it a mistake not to keep records of insurer calls?
Yes, and an easy one to fix. Note the date, who you spoke to and what was said.
What if I feel pressured to agree to something quickly on a call?
Ask for time to consider it and confirm anything important in writing afterwards.
Do I need to treat a friendly adjuster differently from an unfriendly one?
No. Be polite, but remember the loss adjuster assesses the claim for the insurer and does not represent you.
Need a lawyer to handle your injury claim?
For people seeking legal representation. For general information, please use our guides and tools.