How to Deal with Insurance Companies After an Accident

By Alina Bagasian

9 min read

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim. Learn proven strategies to protect yourself and maximize your settlement.

Insurance Companies Are Not Your Friends

After an accident, you may think your insurance company—or the at-fault driver's insurer—will treat you fairly. Unfortunately, the reality is different. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, and their adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Understanding their tactics can help you avoid costly mistakes.

Common Insurance Company Tactics

The Quick Settlement Offer

One of the most common tactics is offering a quick, lowball settlement before you fully understand your injuries. They know that soft tissue injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and other conditions may take weeks or months to fully manifest. Once you accept a settlement, you cannot go back for more—even if your injuries turn out to be severe.

Recorded Statements

Adjusters often ask for recorded statements, claiming it is "routine" or "required." In reality, these statements are used to find inconsistencies or admissions they can use against you. You are not legally required to provide a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company.

Medical Record Requests

Insurance companies may ask you to sign a blanket medical authorization. This gives them access to your entire medical history, which they will use to blame your injuries on pre-existing conditions. Only provide records directly related to your accident injuries.

Delay Tactics

Some insurers deliberately delay claims, hoping you will become desperate and accept a lower offer. They may claim they are "still investigating" or request unnecessary documentation repeatedly.

Downplaying Your Injuries

Adjusters may suggest your injuries are not as serious as you claim, or that you do not really need all the treatment your doctors recommend. They are not medical professionals and have no right to second-guess your healthcare providers.

Protecting Yourself: Do's and Don'ts

DO:

  • Report the accident to your insurance company promptly
  • Stick to basic facts when speaking with any insurance representative
  • Document everything in writing
  • Keep detailed records of all medical treatment
  • Consult with a personal injury attorney before accepting any offer

DON'T:

  • Give a recorded statement without legal advice
  • Sign any documents without understanding them fully
  • Accept the first settlement offer
  • Discuss your case on social media
  • Exaggerate or minimize your injuries

What to Say to Insurance Adjusters

When an adjuster calls, keep the conversation brief and factual:

  • Confirm your name and that you were in an accident
  • Provide basic details: date, time, location
  • Do not discuss injuries in detail—say you are "still being evaluated"
  • Do not admit fault or apologize
  • Tell them your attorney will be in contact (if you have one)

Why Having an Attorney Levels the Playing Field

Insurance companies have teams of adjusters, investigators, and lawyers working to protect their bottom line. When you have an experienced personal injury attorney, you have someone who:

  • Knows the true value of your claim
  • Can communicate with insurers on your behalf
  • Will not be intimidated by delay tactics
  • Can take your case to trial if necessary

At Casa Legal, we handle all communication with insurance companies so you can focus on recovery. Contact us for a free consultation today.