What you say after a car accident can have lasting consequences. Whether you’re at the scene or speaking with an insurance adjuster, your words can be twisted to reduce or deny your claim. Even if you’re trying to be polite or helpful, one wrong sentence could cost you thousands.
1. “I’m Sorry”
It may feel like the right thing to say, but don’t apologize—even casually. An apology can be interpreted as admitting fault, even if you didn’t cause the accident. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys will use any statement that sounds like an admission to shift liability onto you. In Georgia, if you’re found 50% or more at fault, you can’t recover damages (O.C.G.A. 51-12-33). So instead of apologizing, check if everyone is okay and wait for the police to arrive. Stick to the facts and avoid emotional statements.
2. “I’m Not Hurt” or “I Feel Fine”
Never claim you’re uninjured at the scene. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma may take hours—or even days—to appear. Saying you’re fine can be used against you later when you try to file a medical claim. See a doctor within 24 hours to protect both your health and your case. If you delay treatment, insurers may argue your injuries aren’t accident-related.
3. “It Was My Fault”
Fault is a legal determination, not something to be decided at the scene. Maybe you think you were speeding slightly or didn’t see the other car—but that doesn’t mean you caused the crash. There may be other contributing factors, like the other driver texting or running a red light. Let the investigation play out. Even if the facts eventually show partial fault, Georgia’s comparative negligence rule might still allow you to recover damages if you’re less than 50% at fault.
4. “I Don’t Think I Need a Lawyer”
Insurance adjusters love hearing this. They may act friendly, but they are not on your side. Their job is to settle your claim for the lowest amount possible. Saying you don’t need legal help tells them you’re unprepared to fight for what you deserve. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, preserve crucial evidence, and negotiate a fair settlement that includes all your losses—not just medical bills.
5. “Yes, I’ll Give a Recorded Statement”
Insurance companies often ask for a recorded statement—but you are not required to give one. Anything you say can be taken out of context and used to discredit your claim. If you’re nervous or unsure about what to say, even a small inconsistency can hurt your case. Always consult with an attorney before giving any formal statement to the insurance company.
Let Us Speak for You
At Morrison & Hughes, we’ve helped countless accident victims recover full compensation—and we know how to handle insurance companies because our attorneys used to work for them. We know the traps. We know the tactics. And we know how to win.
