Updated: January 2026
Insurance companies often want to speak with you quickly, before you fully understand what happened and before you hire a personal injury attorney. This moment is one where you need to be careful. What you say (or do not say) or how you say things to an insurance adjuster can significantly impact your personal injury claim. Remember, the adjuster’s job is to protect the insurance company and settle claims for as little as possible.
It is in your best interest to have an experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer on your side, ensuring that all communication is handled properly. That way, when the adjuster comes calling, you can simply direct them to your attorney and avoid the risk of saying something you should not.
If an adjuster reaches you before you have spoken with your attorney, keep these tips in mind on what not to say and what you should do.
First thing, identify the person you are speaking with. Before saying anything obtain:
Share only limited information with the adjuster. You may confirm your full name, address, and telephone number. You are not required to discuss your job, income, or personal background.
Set firm boundaries. Make it clear you will not discuss anything but the basics, nothing more.
DO NOT give recorded statements of any kind. The insurance adjuster may ask outright but sometimes they may be more casual so that you do not realize what is being asked. Do not agree to have any conversations recorded; it is not required, and it is illegal for them to record you without your permission. Politely decline and refer them to your attorney.
DO NOT discuss accident details. Only provide basic details, such as:
Anything more should go through your attorney.
DO NOT discuss your injuries. The adjuster will want to know the nature and extent of any injuries but injury symptoms can evolve, something could be left out, or worse than originally thought. Simply say you are receiving medical treatment and cannot provide details at this time.
NEVER admit fault or imply you may have been at fault, so avoid statements that imply responsibility. Fault will be determined through an official investigation
Always take notes so that you know what you have received or given verbally or in writing. Be sure to document:
Questions? Call us at (877) 284-6600, Chat Online or use our Text Us widget.
On the phone talking with an insurance adjuster.
Insurance adjusters are trained in active listening – hearing the tone, the way you respond, and the words you use – and are skilled at taking what you say to fit their version. Avoid phrases such as:
Best advice, hire a personal injury lawyer who can handle all communications properly with the insurance company. Then, you don’t have to worry. All you need to say is, speak with my attorney.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident, a slip and fall, or some other accident in which you suffered serious injuries due to another’s negligence, contact Nash & Franciskato at (877) 284-6600.
Our experienced Kansas City personal injury attorneys have a successful track record of helping accident victims collect the compensation they deserve for:
One of our attorneys will speak with you personally and will provide you with a free, no-obligation review of your case.
Having an attorney who is your advocate can offer you peace of mind while you focus on healing.
START YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION TODAY
If you would like to receive news and blog updates on a regular basis, sign up to receive our email newsletter. Your email address will only be used to send you our newsletter and respond to inquiries.
Past results afford no guarantee of future results and each case is different and is judged on its own merits. The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertisements.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on June 10, 2022. It was reviewed and updated on January 15, 2025.
Photo Credits:
