Mark Anderson | December 4, 2025 | Personal Injury

What Not to Say to an Insurance Adjuster

When you’ve been injured in an accident — whether it’s a slip and fall, car crash, workplace accident, dog bite, construction injury, or any unexpected event — speaking with an insurance adjuster may feel like a normal next step. They might sound friendly, empathetic, and eager to help get your claim processed. But they have one priority: protecting the insurance company’s bottom line, not protecting you.

Any statement you give, even offhand or polite comments, can be used to limit your compensation. Below are some of the phrases you should never say to an insurance adjuster after any type of accident, why they hurt your claim, and how to protect yourself.

“It Was My Fault.”

Never admit fault after any accident. Liability is rarely as clear as it seems. 

You may not know:

  • Whether the property owner ignored a known hazard
  • Whether safety rules were violated
  • If equipment was defective
  • Whether a vehicle was poorly maintained
  • If lighting, signage, or flooring contributed to your fall

You may feel embarrassed or flustered, especially after a fall, and instinctively apologize. But saying “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault” gives insurers a reason to reduce or deny your claim.

“I’m Not Hurt.”

This is one of the most damaging statements after any accident. Many injuries don’t show up immediately. 

Common delayed-onset injuries include:

If you tell an adjuster you’re not hurt, they may later argue:

  • Your injuries aren’t accident-related
  • You’re exaggerating symptoms
  • You didn’t seek care promptly, so your injuries must not be serious

Instead, you should stick to the facts and state if you’re seeking medical attention. 

“I Think What Happened Was…”

Guessing, speculating, or trying to fill in unclear details can harm your claim — even if your intentions are good. 

Statements to avoid include the following: 

  • “I guess I wasn’t watching my step…”
  • “I think the floor must have been wet…”
  • “Maybe I wasn’t paying attention…”

These guesses can be used to shift blame away from a negligent party, even if evidence later proves otherwise. You should only state what you directly observed and avoid expanding beyond that.

“Yes, You Can Record My Statement.”

Insurance adjusters often sound casual when requesting a recorded statement, but this is one of the most dangerous traps. 

In recorded interviews, they may:

  • Ask leading questions
  • Encourage speculation
  • Lock you into details before you know the full extent of your injuries
  • Use inconsistencies against you

Once your statement is recorded, it is permanent and can be used to undermine your case. You should always consult an attorney before agreeing to provide a recorded statement. 

“I’ll Take the First Offer You Give Me.”

The first settlement offer is almost always the lowest possible amount.

This initial offer rarely accounts for:

  • Ongoing medical treatment
  • Future complications
  • Time away from work
  • Long-term pain
  • Permanent injuries
  • Emotional distress

Insurers count on victims being overwhelmed, financially pressured, or eager to move on. But accepting the first offer may result in significant underpayment. It is crucial to contact a lawyer before agreeing to accept a settlement offer. 

Contact the Austin Personal Injury Attorneys at Anderson Injury Lawyers for Help Today

What you say to an insurance adjuster after an accident can directly impact your ability to receive fair compensation. Adjusters are trained to look for statements that shift blame, downplay injuries, or restrict your future claims. By knowing what not to say and keeping your comments brief, factual, and cautious, you protect your rights from the very beginning.

If you’ve been injured in Fort Worth, Dallas, or Austin and want help navigating communications with insurance adjusters, securing evidence, and handling every aspect of your claim, reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney. For more information, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Anderson Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today. We can speak to the insurer on your behalf, ensure your rights are protected, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

We proudly serve Tarrant County, Dallas County, and throughout Texas.

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