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What to Say to an Insurance Adjuster After a Car Accident in Virginia

The phone rings. An insurance adjuster wants to talk about your accident. You’re still replaying what happened and wondering what to say to an insurance adjuster after a car accident in virginia, knowing every word could affect your claim.

Caution matters here.

Insurance companies listen closely, and even an innocent comment may limit your recovery. In states like Virginia, where liability rules are especially strict, even a slight misstatement could weaken your ability to recover compensation.

Here’s what to say to an insurance adjuster after a car accident in Virginia and how to protect yourself during that first conversation.

Know Who You’re Talking To

Before the call, remember that the adjuster represents the insurance company, not you.

Even if they sound friendly or concerned, their job is to protect the insurer’s interests. Adjusters often ask questions designed to make you downplay your injuries or accept some blame. 

This is important under Virginia’s pure contributory negligence rule. If the insurer can show you were even slightly at fault, you could lose the right to recover compensation.

When deciding what to tell an insurance adjuster after an accident, keep the conversation brief and factual. Avoid discussing fault or your injuries. It’s fine to say you’re still reviewing your situation and will provide more information later.

The same caution applies when speaking with your own insurer. Be honest and cooperative, but avoid providing unnecessary details or agreeing to a recorded conversation immediately. You’re required to report the crash, but it’s better to seek legal guidance first, particularly about what information to share.

How to Talk to an Insurance Adjuster: The Right Approach

That first conversation with an insurance adjuster takes a mix of patience and restraint. You want to cooperate, but you also need to protect your claim.

When the adjuster calls, stay calm and polite. You don’t need to sound defensive or reluctant, but you should keep control of the conversation. Share only straightforward facts and avoid opinions or guesses.

Here’s what you should provide:

• Your full name and contact information;
• The date, time, and location of the accident;
• The vehicles involved (make, model, and license plate);
• The names of other drivers and any witnesses; and
• A brief description of what happened, limited to basic facts.

Avoid discussing:

• The extent of your injuries (some take time to surface),
• Who you think was at fault (let the evidence establish that),
• Your medical history, and
• Details about your insurance coverage.

Adjusters often reach out when you’re still shaken, in pain, or focused on recovery. It’s completely acceptable to say, “I’m still recovering and need time to assess the situation. I’ll get back to you.”

Questions to Ask an Insurance Adjuster After a Car Accident in Virginia

The adjuster’s job is to gather information, but you have the same opportunity. Asking smart questions helps you understand who you’re dealing with and how the claim will move forward.

Here are a few to start with:

1. Can I have your name, phone number, and claim number for my records? This ensures you know exactly who you’re speaking with and have a reference for any future conversations.
2. Which insurance company do you represent? Clarify whether the adjuster works for your insurer, the other driver’s insurer, or a third-party company handling claims.
3. What is the claims process and expected timeline? Knowing how the process unfolds helps you anticipate the next steps and recognize unnecessary delays.
4. Who will your information be shared with? You have the right to know how the insurer will document, share, and use your information during the claim review.

These questions show that you’re paying attention and taking the claim seriously. They also signal to the adjuster that you intend to stay informed and involved in every stage of the process.

FAQs About Dealing with Insurance Adjusters After a Car Accident

Once you’ve handled the first call, it’s natural to have questions of your own. Here are the most common questions Virginia drivers ask after a car accident, and what to keep in mind when responding to an adjuster.

What Information Should I Give to the Insurance Adjuster After a Car Accident?

Stick to straightforward facts such as your name, the date and location of the crash, and the vehicles involved. Avoid discussing injuries in detail until a doctor has fully evaluated you. Some conditions develop gradually, and early statements can be misleading.

Should I Give a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Adjuster?

You’re not legally obligated to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Insurers sometimes use these statements later to challenge your claim, so consult an attorney first if you’re asked to give one.

What Should I Avoid Saying to an Insurance Adjuster?

Don’t say “I’m fine” or accept any blame. Avoid apologizing, speculating about what happened, or mentioning prior accidents. Keep your answers brief and factual, and never agree to a settlement during the first conversation.

Can I Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Adjuster Without a Lawyer?

You can, but it’s risky. Their goal is to limit what their company pays, and under Virginia law, even slight fault can prevent recovery. Having an attorney handle communication helps ensure your interests are protected.

What If the Insurance Adjuster Offers Me a Quick Settlement?

Be cautious. Early offers typically come when you still don’t know the full extent of your injuries or property damage. Once you sign a release, the claim is closed. Have an attorney review any offer prior to accepting it.

Speak with a Virginia Car Accident Attorney

Before giving any statement to an insurance adjuster, speak with an attorney who can advise you on what to share, what to avoid, and how to protect your rights. If you’ve already talked with an adjuster and are concerned that something you said could affect your claim, it’s still possible to address it with legal support.

For 50 years, The Law Firm of Carlton F. Bennett, P.L.L.C. has represented Virginia car accident victims and fought for the compensation they deserve. We handle all communication with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Call today for a free and confidential consultation.