Your phone rings. It’s an insurance adjuster. They sound polite, even friendly. They “just need a few details” to process your claim. Make no mistake—this is not a casual conversation. Every question they ask is calculated. Every answer you give could be used to weaken your claim. Insurance companies don’t pay out claims because they feel bad. They pay the least they can get away with. So, before you say a word, know exactly how to handle the call.
The Adjuster Works for the Insurance Company—Not You
The adjuster’s job is to protect the insurance company’s bottom line. That means minimizing your payout. They will ask about your injuries, how the accident happened, and anything else that could help them justify a lowball offer—or deny your claim entirely.
You don’t have to make their job easier. Keep your responses short. Do not speculate. If they ask about your injuries, you can simply say you’re receiving treatment. If they ask about fault, you are under no obligation to provide an analysis. Stick to the facts. Less is more.
Decide Whether to Speak or Direct Them to Your Attorney
If you have a lawyer, there is no reason to deal with the adjuster yourself. A simple response like, “Please direct all questions to my attorney” shuts down the conversation. Give them your lawyer’s contact information and hang up.
If you don’t have legal representation yet, you are still not required to give a statement immediately. You can tell them you’ll get back to them or that you’re considering legal counsel. If you do choose to answer, be truthful but brief. Do not volunteer unnecessary details. The more you say, the more they have to work with when trying to undervalue your claim.
Be Wary of Recorded Statements
Adjusters often ask if they can record the conversation. They may frame it as a routine step, but there’s nothing routine about it. A recorded statement locks you into your words—words they can later twist to dispute your injuries or suggest inconsistencies.
If you’re unsure whether to give a recorded statement, the answer is simple: don’t. At the very least, consult an attorney first. If the adjuster insists, you can say, “I am not comfortable giving a recorded statement at this time.” That is all they need to hear.
Do Not Accept a Quick Settlement
If an adjuster offers you money early in the process, be suspicious. A quick settlement benefits them, not you. Injuries take time to fully reveal themselves. Medical bills stack up. If you settle too soon, you could find yourself with expenses that far exceed the payout.
Insurance companies count on people being desperate for fast cash. Don’t fall for it. The first offer is almost always a lowball. If they’re offering you money quickly, it’s because they know your claim is worth more.
Document Everything
Keep records of everything related to your injury. Medical appointments, prescriptions, physical therapy, lost wages—every dollar counts. Also, document every conversation with the adjuster. Write down the date, time, and key points of each call. If they promise something, get it in writing. If they pressure you, make a note of it.
A well-documented claim is harder to dispute. The more evidence you have, the stronger your position when negotiating a fair settlement.
Talk to a Lawyer Before You Talk to an Adjuster
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their employer, not you. They use tactics designed to limit what you receive. But you don’t have to play their game. Before you say a word, talk to someone who fights back. The Snow Legal Group, PLLC is ready to handle your case with the toughness it deserves. Call 704-358-0026 and let us take it from here.