I was in an auto accident. Should I agree to give a "recorded statement" to the adjuster?

A: No, you should not -- at least not before you talk with a qualified car accident lawyer.  In fact, this is the most common mistake people make after they are in a car accident.

The reason you don't want to give a recorded statement is because auto insurance adjusters are highly skilled at manipulating you in to making statements that can hurt your claim down the road.  Your statement is "recorded" for this very reason -- they want to use it against you if you pursue your claim.

So, if you think they want your "statement" just to get information so they can pay you on your claim, try this trick:  tell the adjuster you are willing to give a "statement," but you don't want it to be "recorded."  See how the adjuster reacts.  If the adjuster wants your statement just to get information from you, why would they need it to be recorded?  Can't they just take notes of what you say?

Even if you don't hire an auto accident lawyer, at least talk to one before you agree to give any recorded statement.  

If you don't have any bodily injury, and your only claim relates to damage to your car, then you can probably settle your claim without hiring a lawyer.  Also, this is the only situation in which you may be well served to go ahead and give that recorded statement.  This way, you will be paid much more quickly on your property damage claim.  However, talk to a lawyer before you do this.

If you have sustained any injuries in your auto accident, DO NOT GIVE ANY RECORDED STATEMENT.  It will definitely be used against you when you, with or without a lawyer, try to settle your claim.

Please contact us if you would like additional information on recorded statements after car accidents.