Within days of an accident you may get a friendly call from the other driver's insurance company. The adjuster may be pleasant and helpful. Keep in mind that their job is to close your claim for as little as reasonably possible.
What you can safely share
Your name, contact details, the date and place of the accident, and your own insurance information. That is enough for them to open a claim.
What to hold back
- Recorded statements. You are not required to give the other side's insurer a recorded statement after an accident. Politely decline until you have spoken with a lawyer.
- Guesses about your injuries. Saying "I'm fine" on day two can be used against you when pain shows up on day five.
- Anything about fault. Even an apology can be framed as an admission.
Watch the medical authorization
Adjusters often send a form asking permission to pull your medical records. Many are written broadly enough to cover your entire history, which lets them look for old injuries to blame. Have a lawyer review it first.
Understanding an insurance settlement offer
Early offers tend to come before you know the full cost of your injuries, and they usually require you to sign a release ending the claim. It is rarely wise to accept one without advice. There is no penalty for saying you need time.
Your own insurer is different
Your policy requires you to cooperate with your own insurance company, and you should report the accident to them promptly. Even so, stick to facts, and let a lawyer handle anything beyond the basics if you have been hurt.