Expert Advice When You Need It Most

What to Say and What Not to Say in Speaking with an Insurance Adjuster or Investigator

Written by: Jeena R. Belil

Reputation Level 13

Posted over 3 years ago. Applies to New York, 6 helpful votes, 0 comments

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What to Do/Say:

Write down the name of the adjuster your are speaking with and the claim number they have assigned to your case. Provide your full name, address and telephone number. Take notes of the conversation. Ask the adjuster if they are aware of any witnesses. Be very general when you describe your injuries. No need to go into detail, as you may not even know the extent of your injuries early on. Tell the adjuster you will provide a complete, detailed, medical description of your injuries after you and your doctors have done a full assessment.

What not to Do/Say

Do not agree to an audio tape recording of the conversation. Insurance adjusters will engage you in an informal conversation in an effort to relax you and get as many details about the accident as possible. Do not discuss anything but the basic facts of the accident: a) where the accident occurred; b) Date and time of the accident; c) type of accident - motor vehicle, slip and fall. You do not need to provide details about your work, such as income, schedule, details of what you do at your job or your social security number.