The short answer
- Don't admit or speculate about fault. "It was my fault" — or even "I didn't see them" — can be used against you.
- Don't say "I'm fine." Some injuries surface days later. Stick to "I'm getting checked by a doctor."
- Don't guess. "I don't know yet" is a perfectly good, honest answer.
- Don't agree to a recorded statement on the spot. You can decline or follow up later.
- Don't accept the first offer. You can take your time to understand the full picture.
In this guide
Most adjusters are perfectly pleasant, and this is not about being difficult. It is simply that the adjuster’s job is to resolve the claim for as little as is reasonable, and a few off-the-cuff phrases can quietly undermine an otherwise strong claim. This pairs with our guide on dealing with insurance.
You don't have to be evasive — just factual. The safest answers are honest, brief, and free of guesswork.
Why adjusters ask the way they do
Adjusters are trained to gather information that helps value — and sometimes limit — a claim. Friendly questions like “how are you feeling?” are normal, but an answer like “oh, I’m fine” can later be used to argue your injuries were minor. Knowing this lets you answer calmly and accurately.
Phrases to avoid — and what to say instead
"It was my fault" / "I'm sorry"
Don't assign blame. Say: "I'd rather not discuss fault — the report covers what happened."
"I'm fine" / "I'm not hurt"
Say: "I'm being checked by a doctor and will know more soon."
"I think it was about 40mph..."
Don't guess at speeds or distances. Say: "I don't want to guess — I'll refer to the report."
"Sure, you can record this."
Say: "I'm not ready to give a recorded statement today."
"That offer sounds okay."
Say: "I'll review it and get back to you."
About recorded statements
The other driver’s insurer may ask to record a statement early. You are generally not required to give one, and it is reasonable to decline or to wait until you understand your injuries and have your records together.
The safe approach, in one line
Be honest, be brief, stick to the facts you are sure of, and when you are not sure, say so. Refer to the police report and your documentation rather than your memory of details under pressure.
When it's worth talking to someone
If you were injured or fault is disputed, you do not have to manage the insurer alone. A free, no-obligation conversation can take that pressure off.
- Don't admit or speculate about fault, speed, or distances.
- Don't say "I'm fine" before a doctor has checked you.
- "I don't know yet" is a safe, honest answer.
- You can decline a recorded statement and the first offer.
- Refer to the report and your records, not pressured memory.
Common questions
Do I have to talk to the other driver's insurance adjuster?
You can be cooperative, but you are not required to give them a recorded statement or to answer everything on the spot. Be factual, and it is fine to follow up once you understand the full picture.
Why shouldn't I say I'm fine?
Because some injuries appear days later. Saying "I'm fine" early can be used to argue your injuries were minor. "I'm being checked by a doctor" is more accurate.
Is it rude to decline a recorded statement?
No. It is a normal, reasonable thing to do, and a polite "I'm not ready to give a recorded statement today" is perfectly acceptable.
What if I already said something I regret?
Don't panic. Stick to the facts from here, refer to your documentation, and if you're worried, a free conversation can help you understand where you stand.
Sources
Written by The Accident Advisory editorial team from the sources below. Every change is logged in the editorial changelog.
- Insurance Information Institute (III) — the claims process and working with adjusters. iii.org. Accessed
- State departments of insurance — consumer guidance on recorded statements and settlements (varies by state). Accessed
The Accident Advisory provides free, general information and is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified attorney about your situation. Insurance rules and liability differ by state and by policy, and change over time.