Things You Should NOT Say to an Insurance Adjuster After an Accident

Editor’s Note: This guide has been updated for July 2025 with the latest data and insurance industry trends to provide the most current advice for protecting your car accident claim.

After a car accident, one of the first calls you’ll likely receive is from the other party’s insurance adjuster. While they may seem friendly, it’s crucial to remember their goal is to minimize their company’s payout. What you say can dramatically impact your claim.
This guide covers exactly what not to say, how to handle the conversation, and the key rules to follow to protect your rights in the current 2025 landscape.

Current Trends Affecting Your Car Accident Claim

As we move through 2025, it’s more important than ever to be cautious. Recent industry data reveals trends that directly impact accident victims:

• The Rising Cost of Injuries: The severity of car accident claims is increasing. According to a 2024 LexisNexis Auto Insurance Trends Report, bodily injury severity jumped 9.2% year-over-year. This means the average cost to treat injuries is rising, making it essential that you don’t downplay your physical condition.
• Increasing Claim Values: The overall cost of liability claims is surging. Data from the Triple-I blog shows the average cost per claim (severity) has seen a cumulative increase of 54.2 points from 2019 to 2024.
• A More Aggressive Claims Environment: Insurance industry analysts point to a rise in “legal system abuse” as a factor in these higher costs. For you, this translates to a more challenging claims environment where insurance companies are more likely to fight to reduce settlement values.

These 2025 trends confirm that insurance adjusters are under immense pressure to control costs. They will scrutinize every word you say. Understanding what to avoid saying is your first line of defense.

7 Things You Should Never Say to an Insurance Adjuster

Here are the most critical things to avoid saying to an insurance adjuster after a car accident. Following this advice is the first step to protecting your claim.

1. “It’s All My Fault”

Never admit any level of fault to an insurance adjuster and don’t apologize for what happened. Admitting fault can harm your case by either preventing you from winning your claim entirely or lowering the total value of your accident claim.

California is a comparative negligence state, which means each party’s level of blame will be evaluated and compared. If you admit some level of fault, your accident compensation will be reduced by your proportion of responsibility.

2. “I Guess …”

Don’t speculate, make guesses, or share assumptions about what happened. When you’re asked a question, give short answers that focus on the basic facts of the accident.

Similarly, don’t provide extra details that aren’t necessary. In a discussion about the speed limit on the road at the scene of your accident, don’t volunteer whether you were speeding or guess what it says in the police report.

Also, don’t get lured into a casual discussion about your personal life, like whether you enjoy taking road trips or being part of a car club. Any details you provide could be twisted and used against you later.

3. “Everything is Okay”

Don’t tell the insurance adjuster that you’re feeling fine or everything is okay now. Even if you feel the urge to downplay what happened so you can move forward from the accident, keep in mind that the insurance adjuster will take this as an admission that you were never injured and might even accuse you of making a false insurance claim.

You’re also not obligated to describe your injuries or give an update on your medical progress. The details of your medical situation can be kept between yourself and your doctor until you work with a lawyer to create a demand letter for the insurance company.

4. “My Social Security Number is …”

In California, you are not required to give an insurance adjuster your social security number. Maintain tight control of your personal data and refuse to provide details unless you’ve already cleared it with your lawyer in advance.

5. “Yes, You Can Record This”

Don’t allow a taped recording of your discussion with the insurance adjuster. It’s your right to decline a recorded statement and the insurance company is not permitted to decline your claim simply because you refused to be recorded.

6. “I Agree” or “I Accept” or “I Will Sign”

Never agree to anything, say you accept any terms, or sign anything until you talk to a California car accident lawyer about your case. This could sacrifice your rights and stop your case in its tracks, making it impossible to build a high-value insurance claim.

7. “I Don’t Have a Lawyer”

Perhaps the biggest mistake of all would be to handle your case without a lawyer’s help. Although it’s within your rights to manage your case alone, we don’t recommend it.

Insurance companies typically make lower offers to car accident victims who don’t have legal representation. They assume your costs will be lower and hope that you don’t have the legal knowledge to demand everything you deserve.

Contact the experienced car accident team at Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers as soon as possible. We have the talent it takes to help you say and do the right things to pursue a successful insurance claim. Unlike the insurance adjuster, we’re here to help you!

Proof of Why Expert Guidance Matters: Our Results

Navigating an insurance claim is complex, but having the right legal team makes all the difference. Our clients’ experiences and our case results demonstrate the value of having a professional advocate on your side.

What Our Clients Say

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Karen johnson

2 years ago

When I got into my accident I was really not looking for an attorney, however I became frustrated with the other parties insurance company. I then went online and found Sally Morin Law and called for a free courtesy consult. Annie quickly called me back and spent 30 minutes explaining the attorney process. This made my decision easy,,, an All female attorney group certainly did not disappoint. Annie and her team (Amber) were on the case immediately, making calls, sending emails and dealing with the other party insured (or lack of insured). I’m so pleased to have had this incredible team of ladies to help me through this process. They did all their professional expertise, none of which I was capable of. They advocated for me in every way from medical bills, insurance liens, med pay, demand letters, phone calls, emails etc. All I needed to do was send receipts, and most importantly focus on getting better. Thank u team for all u have done. I am grateful for so much,,, and I can say that making that first phone call was the best decision. Keep up the great work and helping others Sincerely KJJ

Michael Basti

2 years ago

I unfortunately got injured in an auto accident and called a bunch of different attorneys with little to no help. I called Sally Morin Law and got help from Rebecca who was absolutely fantastic. She was there every step of the way to help and Isn’t just trying to make a quick buck. She took her time with me and went out of her way to help out. Thanks for all the help Rebecca!!

Reba Roseberry

2 years ago

I was t-boned by someone who ran a red light, totaling my car and sending me to the hospital with multiple breaks to my pelvis, among other smaller injuries. Once released from the hospital, I was confused, angry, and extremely anxious about what to do next. A friend encouraged me to seek legal help, and I found the team at Sally Morin. I was drawn to their all-women team, and immediately felt assured that I was in good hands. They took the reigns on handling everything, leaving me significantly more relieved to rest and heal like my body needed. With their help, the case was settled within four months of the accident, and I can now move forward with my life and leave this behind me. I would absolutely recommend the team at Sally Morin to anyone in a similar situation!

John Zientek

2 years ago

I was injured while riding my bicycle and a friend recommended Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers. In my experience, they made the process transparent and smooth, allowing me to focus on recovery — they were professional, empathetic, and effective! Rebecca and Carmen made a difficult time much less stressful.

Jimmy Lu

2 years ago

My mom was in a car accident and was badly injured. We wanted her to focus on her recovery without the worries of medical bills and dealing with multiple insurance companies so we hired Sally Morin Lawyers. Fortunately we received Annie Heller who showed strong ownership of the case, dealing with all communications from medical to slow moving insurance companies. Annie and team helped us settle the case with money in my mom’s pocket, but more importantly helped all of us not worry about anything besides my mom’s recovery. thank you!

Shannon Yu

2 years ago

Carmen and team at Sally Morin are the best. Having Carmen and her team for my personal injury case is one of the lucky thing for me in 2024 Carmen is a very capable law professional. she is expert in her domain, also she is very skillful in finding the key information. Carmen is also a compassionate and kind person, she listened and also put my interests in priority. At the same time she patiently explained to me the law information. Carmen is also very good with execution, the whole process she is proactively driving it towards the satisfactory result What more can you ask for a lawyer who is capable, professional, kind, effective and efficient.

Dee49ful

2 years ago

I was very fortunate that, by pure luck, I found Sally Morin’s firm online. It wasn’t recommended to me by anyone, but I now want to recommend them to EVERYONE, especially my fantastic attorney, Annie Heller. Annie was compassionate, honest, attentive, and responsive to my calls and emails. Throughout the entire process of my claim, I felt completely supported by her, and even after my case was successfully settled, she followed up with me. Thank you Annie, for your exceptional legal service!!

Lew Jabro (Havasu Lew)

3 years ago

Amazing! After months and months of going it alone and getting nowhere with our sons accident, and struggling...badly, we were lucky enough to get refered to Sally and Rebecca. They took over the whole case and handled everything. The whole team was very personable, professional, keeped us in the loop the entire time and cared about what was going on. They also set us up with all the right people to make sure the settlement funds were properly handled in the most efficient way for us. I just dont think we could have done all of this without them. It was a terrible time for our family, and we are very gratefull for everything they did for us! Thank you guys! ~HavasuLew

Kyle Osborn

3 years ago

Rebecca and the Sally Morin team provided invaluable support during a challenging period after our daughter was involved in a car accident. Their care, expertise, and dedication resulted in an outcome that exceeded our highest expectations. Working with them was a great experience, and I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone, without hesitation!

Alysia Lyons

3 years ago

I worked with Annie on my case and had such a pleasant experience! I felt supported and understood throughout the whole process. I highly recommend Sally Morin firm. Being injured isn't pleasant, so having a team behind you that's got your back makes the experience that much better.

Ariana D

3 years ago

I just spent the last 8 months working with a team of caring, compassionate, relatable women for my personal injury claim. Brief background: I was hit by a car while riding my bike to work. The driver pulled out of a parallel parking space without looking and was completely at fault. Initially, he and the others in the car were very concerned, but ghosted us afterwards and made up a story in order to not take on the blame. I ended up needing surgery and costs mounted, so I sought legal advice. After much research, I settled on Sally Morin Law. The team at this law firm is invested and responsive in a very personable way. I specifically worked with Carmen and Annie. Carmen took the lead and she answered every email, text, and annoying question my husband and I sent her way. She wrote a detailed demand letter that personalized my case and thoroughly explained the impact the accident had on my life, my children's lives, and my husband's life. In the end, our own insurance policy covered the claim to the fullest amount. Additionally, Carmen was able to negotiate the medical lien to $0, and my husband received a separate smaller amount for loss of consortium. We are more than happy with the results as it’s way beyond what we expected, and completely life changing. We didn't proceed with the case thinking we would have the outcome we did, and almost didn't pursue the case. However, after spending my own money on copays, days off from work, take out, uber rides, babysitters, and special equipment, it just didn't feel right not to seek help and I am so glad that I did! I highly recommend Sally Morin Law!

Simon Unge

3 years ago

Last year me and my partner was in a MC/Car accident. I was clueless on what rights we had and how to proceed with insurance claims etc. I contacted Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers, who guided us through the year long process in a very pedagogical manner, a lot of support, expertise and professionalism - answering any questions we had in a timely manner. Highly recommended, they made a painful experience very manageable. Thank you, Rebecca, Carmen, and Amber!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Amy R. 
 
 
 
 Verified 
I can't recommend Rebecca at Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers more highly. Rebecca is transparent, honest, and client-centered in a way that was completely different from the other firms I considered. Rebecca broke down what can feel like a very opaque process, and helped me understand my options in an approachable way. It was immediately clear that Rebecca's advice and guidance centered around my personal best interest, not what would make her firm the most money. Thanks Rebecca and team!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Mike B. 
 
 
 
 Verified 
I unfortunately got injured in an auto accident and called a bunch of different attorneys with little to no help. I called Sally Morin Law and got help from Rebecca who was absolutely fantastic. She was there every step of the way to help and Isn't just trying to make a quick buck. She took her time with me and went out of her way to help out. Thanks for all the help Rebecca!!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Shannon Y. 
 
 
 
 Verified 
Carmen and team at Sally Morin are the best. Having Carmen and her team for my personal injury case is one of the lucky thing for me in 2024
Carmen is a very capable law professional. she is expert in her domain, also she is very skillful in finding the key information. 
Carmen is also a compassionate and kind person, she listened and also put my interests in priority. At the same time she patiently explained to me the law information.
Carmen is also very good with execution, the whole process she is proactively driving it towards the satisfactory result

What more can you ask for a lawyer who is capable, professional, kind, effective and efficient.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Dinora G. 
 
 
 
 Verified 
I was very fortunate, and  by pure luck, I found Sally Morin's firm on YELP.  The firm wasn't recommended to me by anyone, but I now want to recommend them to EVERYONE, especially my fantastic attorney, Annie Heller.  Annie was compassionate, honest, attentive and very responsive to my calls and emails. Throughout the entire process of my claim, I felt completely supported and even after my case successfully settled, she followed up with me. Thank you Annie for your exceptional legal service.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Phil M. 
 
 
 
 Verified 
Rebecca and the team at Sally Morin are awesome, plain and simple! Honestly, they were the only legal representation that didn't make me feel slimy after the first conversation. I was thrilled to work with them on my injury case after realizing it was more than I could handle dealing directly with the other party's insurance myself. They advocated for me and my family, going into incredible detail and crafting a great strategy for what to do next. The end result was a pleasant surprise, far exceeding my expectations.

Rebecca and the team definitely earn their share by providing amazing value. They're also no-pressure, which was refreshing compared to other lawyers I contacted before choosing Sally Morin. Their priority was making sure I was always informed and knew exactly what was going on, every step of the way.

If something happens again, Rebecca and Sally Morin will be my first call--and I'm sure there will be a multitude of emails to follow! :P
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Steve M. 
 
 
 
 Verified 
Attorneys Annie Levitt Heller and Carmen from Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers are the absolute best! They are dedicated, approachable and thorough in all their work. They provided the best possible outcome for my case (I was a pedestrian hit by a car in a crosswalk) and supportive every step of the way. I would absolutely recommend Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers to anyone Forever grateful to them!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 James Minh N. 
 
 
 
 Verified 
My sister got in a car accident, was hit badly by another driver, became unconscious, and was immediately taken to hospital emergency with an internal brain bleeding thus could not defend herself. As a result, the police report had false information from the other driver and concluded my sister at fault. While other legal firms purposed disappeared after seeing at the police report and other driver's cheap insurance policy (not easy win), Sally Morin team with great heart and "no win, no pay" written clause took on the case and successfully reversed both insurance + police reports and won the case. My family is grateful to find Sally Morin firm and great team with legal expertise, experience, and most important great heart. Thank you very much.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Tim K. 
 
 
 
 Verified 
Unfortunately me and my mom were hit by another driver on the freeway. We ended up with hospital bills and a long road to recovery especially for my 85 yr old mother. This was such a tragedy and uncertain times for us not knowing where to turn and what to do about mounting bills while trying to get our lives in order. I contacted Sally and her wonderful team. Carmen one of her associates worked with me and my mom and handled everything. Carmen was awesome and such a caring lawyer as well. She keeps
It real and we loved that about her. When you need a personal injury attorney that will work on handling your case in every aspect, insurance claims, potential health liens and negotiating on your behalf then Sally Morin Personal Injury law firm is the one to contact. You can count on them. Carmen explained everything so we knew what we were in for and was trustworthy and honest. There is no way to state how invaluable and priceless it is knowing the law firm you hired has your back and can be trusted. I hope no one ever needs a personal Injury attorney because being injured is one of the worst things that can happen to you; your life changes in an instant after a bad accident. But having a law firm like Sally Morin with lawyers like Carmen make that terrible experience much better knowing they are there to handle every aspect of your case and do it so well. Thanks Carmen and team. Much appreciated!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Stephan B. 
 
 
 
 Verified 
I originally reached out to a different law firm to handle my personal injury case, but Sally Morin's team (Rebecca Taylor in particular) left such a good impression on me that I switched to them--and I'm glad I did! They were empathetic and professional, communicated early and often, and patiently walked me through every option. They did thorough research and handled so much on their end that I was able to focus on my recovery/work/life with minimal disruption. So I highly recommend this firm.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Yelp  
 
  
 
 
 Michele H. 
 
 
 
 Verified 
Word cannot express the honesty from Annie at Sally Morin law . She is honest kind and to the point . If you want to get ripped off by shady humans don't hire Annie . If you want honest kind and attentive go with Annie at Sally Morin law . You will feel good about your choice  . She is a firm advocate with insurance and health care .  Annie and her team will be available to explain things all the way through . Her integrity is not matched in this field . I would hire again and again 
Thanks Annie   You made one of the most difficult times in my families life tolerable !  
Your kindness and integrity are not matched in everyday life . Much less with  personal injury lawyers thank you thank you 
Michele Hargrove
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
    
 
 

A Case Study in Success: Maximizing a Car Accident Settlement

Settlement: $100,000 Car Accident

Our client suffered severe injuries in a car accident, including a 6-inch full-thickness laceration of their upper arm requiring three surgeries, and a left metatarsal fracture that crushed the bones in their foot. With medical bills stacking up and unable to work, they were overwhelmed by the paperwork and stress from the accident.

The situation was complicated because the at-fault driver who hit them had a minimal insurance policy. This didn’t stop our attorney team. We relentlessly investigated all potential sources of compensation.

Our client said the best thing we did was take over the burden of dealing with the insurance company and managing their medical bills. We ensured their payments stayed current, protecting them from late fees and credit damage. Our team ultimately found a $15,000 available policy. More importantly, we successfully negotiated with the medical providers to reduce the total medical costs from more than $90,000 to under $5,000. This allowed our client to keep a much larger portion of the overall $100,000 settlement.

Learn More About This Settlement

Key Rules to Follow When Speaking to an Insurance Adjuster

• Stay Calm and Polite: Be courteous but firm.
• Provide Only Basic Information: You only need to provide your name, address, and the date and location of the accident.
• Refer Them to Your Attorney: The best way to protect yourself is to let an experienced attorney handle all communication. Simply say, “Please direct all future questions to my attorney.”
• Keep a Record: Take notes of every conversation, including the date, time, and what was discussed.

The Risks of Saying the Wrong Thing

The consequences of a misstep can be severe:

• Reduced Settlement: Admitting fault or downplaying injuries can lead to a significantly lower settlement offer.
• Claim Denial: The insurance company may use your words to deny your claim altogether.
• Waiving Your Rights: Accepting an early settlement offer prevents you from seeking further compensation if your injuries worsen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to Choose a Lawyer

Choosing the right personal injury lawyer is critical. Look for a lawyer with a proven track record, positive client testimonials, and experience fighting for the true value of claims.

We Handle Your Accident Claim With Care

After a car accident, please reach out to the attorney team at Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers before you speak to the insurance adjuster. We handle many areas of personal injury law, including traffic accidents. We believe you should be able to focus on recovering from your accident while we handle the legal details.

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Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute legal advice. Individual case outcomes may vary, and consultation with a qualified attorney is recommended.