Why You Should Not Talk to the At-Fault Driver's Insurance Company
After an accident, you will receive a call from the other driver's insurance company. The adjuster will sound friendly and concerned. They will ask you to describe the accident and your injuries. Do not do this without an attorney. The adjuster's job is to minimize what the insurance company pays — and everything you say will be used to reduce or deny your claim.
Common Tactics Insurance Adjusters Use
Adjusters are trained to get you to make statements that hurt your case. They ask leading questions designed to establish that you were partially at fault. They ask about your injuries early — before you know the full extent — so they can later argue you exaggerated. They record your conversation and transcribe it for their attorneys. They offer quick settlements that are a fraction of your case's real value, hoping you will accept before consulting a lawyer.
What About YOUR Insurance Company?
Under Michigan's no-fault system, you do need to cooperate with your own insurance company to file your PIP claim under MCL § 500.3107. However, even with your own insurer, you should be careful. Report the accident factually. Do not speculate about fault. Do not give a recorded statement without legal guidance. And do not accept any settlement offer without having an attorney review it.
What to Say If an Adjuster Calls
If the at-fault driver's insurance company contacts you, say: "I appreciate the call, but I have been advised to direct all communications through my attorney." Then provide your attorney's contact information. This is your right, and exercising it does not hurt your case — it protects it.
When to Call an Attorney
The best time to call an attorney is before you talk to any insurance company. The second best time is right now. Call Koussan Law at (313) 800-0000 for a free consultation. We handle all insurance communications so you can focus on your recovery.
