When you’ve been in a car crash, knowing what to say to the insurance company can be just as important as seeking medical care. Whether the incident resulted in property damage or personal injury, your words can directly influence the outcome of a future claim. Many accident victims unknowingly provide statements that limit their compensation or undermine their credibility.

Insurance Companies Do Not Represent You

Insurance adjusters may sound helpful, but their responsibility is to protect the company’s financial interests. In many cases, insurers look for ways to deny or reduce claims by recording statements that can later be used to dispute liability or injuries. This is especially important in Maryland, where contributory negligence laws can prevent recovery if the injured party is found even slightly at fault.

Instead of providing a detailed account, stick to basic facts and refrain from offering opinions about fault or injuries. If you are unsure how to respond to insurer questions, our attorneys can speak on your behalf and help you avoid common mistakes that could affect your claim.

The less you say directly to insurers, the better. Stick to the facts, report only what’s required, and refer any further communication to your attorney.

What You Are Required to Report

In Maryland, you are generally required to report accidents involving injuries, death, or significant property damage. Most insurance policies also include clauses requiring timely notice of any incident that may result in a claim. When reporting, include:

• The time, date, and location of the crash
• Names and contact information of those involved
• A brief description of what happened
• Confirmation of any medical attention received

This information satisfies your reporting duties without volunteering statements that could be used against you later.

What Not to Say to the Insurance Company

Avoid admitting fault, speculating about what caused the crash, or minimizing your injuries. Comments like “I’m fine” or “I didn’t see them” can be used out of context to weaken your claim. Even if you believe you were partly at fault, do not say so. Let the investigation determine liability.

If asked about injuries, avoid downplaying your condition. Symptoms often worsen over time, and early assurances that you’re okay can harm your case. Instead, say that you are still being evaluated or receiving treatment.

A car accident lawyer can ensure your statements are appropriate and legally sound, shielding you from common traps set by insurance adjusters.

Handling Recorded Statements

Insurance adjusters may request a recorded statement. You are not obligated to comply, especially when dealing with the other driver’s insurer. Even your own insurer can use statements against you later in the claims process.

Politely decline and inform them that your attorney will provide the necessary information. If you’ve already given a statement, consult a personal injury attorney in Maryland right away to understand the impact it may have on your case.

Communicating Through Your Attorney

Once you’ve hired legal representation, all communication should go through your attorney. This not only protects your rights but also ensures that your case is presented with clarity, accuracy, and professionalism. At The Law Office of Robert Castro, we handle all correspondence with insurers, relieving stress from our clients and allowing them to focus on their recovery.

Visit our case results to see how we’ve successfully resolved complex claims involving uncooperative insurance companies.

What Happens If You Say the Wrong Thing?

A single careless statement can be used to:

• Deny liability
• Devalue medical expenses
• Argue that injuries are unrelated
• Suggest contributory negligence (which can bar recovery in Maryland)

Since Maryland follows the strict contributory negligence rule, even a slight misstep can result in losing your right to compensation. That’s why it’s critical to have an auto accident attorney involved early in the process.

Providing Documentation Instead of Commentary

When asked for details, let your documents speak for you. Medical records, accident reports, photos, and witness statements are far more effective and less risky than verbal statements. We help clients compile a complete set of documents to present to the insurer, highlighting key evidence and avoiding unnecessary commentary.

For help assembling documentation, visit our personal injury page to learn more about our legal services.

Delays, Denials, and Low Offers

It is not uncommon for insurance companies to delay processing a claim or make low settlement offers, hoping the claimant will accept out of frustration or need. This tactic is prevalent when claimants are unrepresented. A personal injury attorney can respond firmly and legally to these tactics, applying pressure through negotiation and, when needed, litigation.

If you’ve already received an offer that seems too low, it’s not too late. Contact us through our contact page for a complimentary case review and next steps.

The Benefits of Legal Support from Day One

Legal support can level the playing field against large insurance companies. At The Law Office of Robert Castro, we have helped clients throughout Waldorf and Washington, DC, stand up to insurers and recover what they deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Our clients consistently praise our responsiveness and the results we deliver. You can view recent client feedback on our reviews page or see Attorney Robert Castro’s Avvo profile for more on his credentials and ratings.

Why Your First Conversation Matters

Every word said to an insurer after a crash can influence the outcome of your claim. The best approach is to provide only basic facts and allow an experienced attorney to handle the rest. Insurance companies are motivated to minimize payouts. Your job is to protect yourself with timely legal advice and avoid common pitfalls.

You can get started today by requesting a free consultation with our firm to go over your case and understand your rights.

Get the Answers You Need, Without the Risk

Your words can either strengthen or weaken your injury claim. By working with The Law Office of Robert Castro, P.A., you gain legal representation that protects your rights at every turn. Whether you’re in Waldorf, Maryland, or the Washington, DC area, we are ready to handle the insurance process so you don’t have to. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.