Insurance & the claims process


What should I never say to the insurance adjuster after an accident?

After an accident, avoid giving the other driver’s insurance adjuster a recorded statement, do not guess or speculate about fault, and never say you are "fine" or "not hurt" before you have been fully evaluated. Adjusters are trained to use early, casual remarks to reduce what the insurer pays.

General information, not legal advice. This guide explains how things generally work in Florida; it is not a prediction or guarantee about any case, and every claim depends on its own facts. For advice about your situation, talk to a lawyer.

Why the adjuster calls so quickly

The other driver’s insurance company often calls within a day or two — friendly, sympathetic, and already building a file. Their job is to resolve your claim for as little as possible, and the easiest way to do that is to get you talking before you know the full extent of your injuries or your rights.

The things not to say

Do not say "I’m fine" or "I’m not hurt." Injuries surface later, and that quote will be replayed against you. Do not guess about how fast you were going, who was at fault, or exactly what happened — speculation gets treated as fact. Do not agree to a recorded statement with the other driver’s insurer; you are not required to give one. And do not accept the first settlement offer, which is usually low by design.

You can be polite and brief: confirm your identity, say you are still being treated, and that you or your lawyer will follow up. That is enough.

Why a few words can cost so much

Florida uses comparative negligence, which means your recovery can be reduced by your share of fault. An adjuster who can pin even part of the blame on you — using your own words — directly lowers what the insurer pays. That is why what you say early matters as much as the facts of the crash.

Common questions

Do I have to give the other driver’s insurance a recorded statement?

No. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. You generally do need to cooperate with your own insurer under your policy, but even then it is wise to talk to a lawyer first.

Should I accept the first settlement offer from the adjuster?

Be very cautious. Early offers often come before the full extent of your injuries is known, and signing a release usually ends your claim for good. Have the offer reviewed before you accept anything.

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