If you’ve been in a car accident, the other driver’s insurance company might ask you to give a recorded statement. This may seem normal, but be careful—what you say can be used against you to reduce your claim.
Insurance companies are not on your side. They are trying to pay you as little as possible. That’s why it’s important to prepare before speaking with them. Follow these tips to protect yourself:
1. Talk to a Lawyer First
This is the most important step! Do not talk to the other driver’s insurance company before speaking with a lawyer. Insurance adjusters know how to ask tricky questions that might make it seem like you were at fault—even if you weren’t. A lawyer will help you understand what to say and what not to say so you don’t hurt your case.
2. Know What Direction You Were Traveling
One of the most common mistakes people make is getting their directions wrong. This can make you seem unreliable. Before the call, check Google Maps to remind yourself which way you were going and what streets you were on. Make sure you have the facts straight so you don’t say something by accident that could hurt your claim.
3. Don’t Lie—But Don’t Give Extra Information
Always tell the truth, but keep your answers short. The insurance adjuster may ask open-ended questions to get you to say more than you need to.
-Question: “What happened after the crash?”
-Good Answer: “I pulled over and called 911.”
-Bad Answer: “I pulled over, but I wasn’t sure if I was hurt. I got out of the car, and the other driver seemed upset, so I tried to calm them down…”
Just answer the question and stop talking. The more you say, the more they can twist your words.
4. Record the Call Yourself (With Permission!)
Insurance companies record your statement, but they usually won’t give you a copy. You should have your own recording in case there’s a dispute later.
-Put the call on speakerphone and record it using your phone.
-Tell them you’re recording and ask for permission. Some states require both sides to agree to being recorded.
-If they refuse, take detailed notes instead.
Having your own recording helps protect you if the insurance company tries to change what was said.
5. Stick to the Facts—No Opinions or Guesses
Only talk about what happened, not why it happened. Do not guess or assume anything.
🚫 Don’t say: “I think the other driver was texting.”
✅ Do say: “I saw the other car run a red light.”
🚫 Don’t say: “I didn’t see them coming.” (This could make it sound like you weren’t paying attention.)
✅ Do say: “I was driving west on Main Street when their car hit mine.”
The insurance company is looking for anything to use against you. Don’t give them extra information.
A recorded statement is not just a simple conversation—it’s a legal matter. The insurance company wants to reduce how much they pay you, so be smart about what you say.
✅ Talk to a lawyer before giving a statement.
✅ Be clear and accurate with your answers.
✅ Record the conversation (with permission).
✅ Stick to the facts—no extra details.
If you were in an accident and the insurance company wants a statement, call us first! We’ll help protect your rights and make sure you don’t say anything that could hurt your case.
Call the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti today for a free consultation or use our online contact form.
