You can speak briefly with the other driver’s insurance adjuster to confirm basic facts, but you are not required to give them a recorded statement, discuss fault, or describe your injuries in detail. In most cases, the safest approach is to let a personal injury attorney handle communication with the at-fault driver’s insurer. Adjusters often call within a day or two of a crash on Burbank roads like the I-5, Olive Avenue, or Victory Boulevard, and they may sound friendly and helpful. At Pilavjian Law, we remind injured drivers that the adjuster’s job is to protect the insurance company, not you.
Why Is the Other Driver’s Adjuster Calling You?
The at-fault driver’s insurer wants to evaluate its exposure as quickly as possible. Early contact gives the adjuster a chance to:
- Lock in your version of events before you fully understand what happened
- Get you to minimize your injuries while symptoms are still developing
- Find statements that suggest you share blame for the crash
- Offer a quick settlement before you know the true cost of your injuries
Anything you say can be used to reduce or deny your claim later.
What Is Okay to Share With the Adjuster?
If you choose to speak with the adjuster, keep the conversation short and factual. It is generally reasonable to provide:
- Your name and contact information
- The date, time, and location of the accident
- The make and model of your vehicle
- Your own insurance company’s information
You can politely tell the adjuster that you are still receiving medical care and that your attorney will be in touch.
What Should You Avoid Saying or Doing?
Certain statements and actions can seriously hurt your claim. Avoid:
- Giving a recorded statement: You have no legal obligation to do this for the other driver’s insurer.
- Guessing about fault or speed: Even casual comments like “I didn’t see them” can be twisted.
- Saying you are “fine” or “okay”: Injuries such as whiplash and concussions often appear days later.
- Signing a broad medical authorization: This can give the insurer access to unrelated medical history.
- Accepting an early settlement offer: Once you accept, you usually cannot seek more money later.
Keep in mind that your own insurance policy likely requires you to cooperate with your own carrier. That duty generally does not extend to the other driver’s insurer.
What If You Already Talked to the Adjuster?
Do not panic. Many people speak with an adjuster before realizing the risks. An attorney can review what was said, request a copy of any recorded statement, and address inaccuracies using medical records, photos, witness accounts, and accident reconstruction. The sooner you get help, the easier it is to correct the record.
How Does an Attorney Help With Insurance Communication?
Once you hire a lawyer, the insurer must direct communication through your legal team. This protects you from pressure tactics and allows your attorney to present your claim with full documentation of your damages. Learn more about how we build these cases on our car accidents page, or browse answers to other common questions in our FAQ section.
Get Help From a Burbank Car Accident Attorney
You do not have to face insurance adjusters on your own. Pilavjian Law handles insurer communication, protects your claim from costly mistakes, and fights for the full compensation you deserve. There is no fee unless we win. Call (818) 380-3021 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.