How to Deal with Insurance Adjusters After a Car Accident in Houston
A car crash in Houston can change your life in just a few seconds. After the impact, you may feel pain, stress, or confusion. While you are trying to figure things out, the insurance companies are already working on their side of the situation. One of the first people to contact you will likely be an insurance adjuster.
They might sound friendly and polite, but they are not calling to help you. Their job is to protect the insurance company. They want to find a way to reduce the amount the company has to pay. That is why it is so important to know what to say and what not to say when they call.
Who Is the Insurance Adjuster and Why Are They Calling?
You may hear from two different adjusters. One works for your insurance company. The other works for the other driver’s company. Both of them work for businesses that want to spend less money, not more.
Your adjuster might help with repairs or car rental if you have coverage. But keep in mind, they still represent the company and not you. You should stay careful with your words and never assume they are fully on your side.
The adjuster from the other driver’s company is looking for anything that can help their side. That includes anything that sounds like you admitted fault or made a mistake.
Be Smart About What You Say
Adjusters will write down or record what you say. Even simple phrases can come back to hurt your claim. It is best to keep your answers short and clear. Do not give opinions or guesses.
Stay calm. Listen carefully. Answer only the questions that matter. Speak with care, because small words can carry big weight.
Things You Should Always Do
When an insurance adjuster contacts you, it is easy to feel caught off guard. You might be unsure about what to say or how much to share. The choices you make early on can affect your entire case. By following a few simple steps, you can avoid common mistakes and make sure you protect your rights from the very beginning.
- Give only basic facts
Share your name, the date of the accident, where it happened, and which vehicles were involved. Do not go into extra details. - Call your insurance company right away
Your policy likely requires you to report the accident as soon as possible. - Write down everything
Keep a notebook or file where you list the names of everyone you talk to, what they said, and when the call happened. This helps you stay organized and protects your side of the story. - See a doctor as soon as possible
Even if you do not feel hurt right away, some injuries show up later. If you wait too long, the insurance company may claim your injury did not come from the accident. - Say no to recorded statements
You do not have to let the adjuster record your call. You can simply say that you are not comfortable doing that at this time.
Mistakes You Should Avoid
Not every mistake is easy to fix, especially when it comes to speaking with insurance adjusters. Even small comments or quick decisions can cause problems later. To protect yourself and your claim, it helps to know what not to do. The list below can keep you from making choices that could work against you.
- Do not say you are sorry
Even a polite comment can sound like an admission of fault. - Do not talk about your injuries
If they ask how you feel, avoid phrases like “I am fine” or “I feel okay.” These comments can be used to say you were not really hurt. - Do not take the first offer
The first settlement is often very low. It is meant to close the case quickly before you understand what your case is worth. - Do not sign anything
Some forms may give the company access to your medical history or may stop you from asking for more money later. Always have a lawyer review anything you are asked to sign. - Do not guess
If you do not know an answer, it is okay to say you are not sure. Do not try to fill in the blanks.
How Texas Law Affects Your Case
Texas law follows the 51 percent rule. If you are found to be 51 percent or more at fault for the accident, you cannot collect money from the other driver. If you are found to be less than 51 percent at fault, your payment can still be reduced based on how much responsibility is placed on you.
This makes your words even more important. Insurance companies are trained to look for anything that points the blame at you, even in small ways.
Be Careful What You Share Online
Adjusters may search your social media. If you post pictures of yourself smiling, walking around, or taking part in activities, they may try to use those photos to say you were not really hurt.
Do not post about the crash. Do not share updates about your recovery. If possible, set your accounts to private and avoid adding people you do not know.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance adjuster?
No. You are not generally required to provide one. Recorded statements can be used during the insurance company’s review of your claim, so it is important to proceed with caution.
What is the Texas 51 percent Bar Rule?
If a person is 51 percent or more at fault for the accident, they cannot recover compensation from the other party. If the person is less than 51 percent at fault, the compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned.
Can the adjuster see my medical records?
An adjuster cannot access your medical information without your permission. The medical release forms they provide are often broad. They may include access to unrelated medical history. It is common for an attorney to limit the release to records connected only to the accident.
How long does the adjuster have to settle my claim in Texas?
Texas law sets certain timeframes. After receiving your claim:
• The insurance company has 15 days to acknowledge receipt.
• After receiving the required information, they have 15 business days to accept or deny the claim.
• If more time is needed, they may request up to 45 additional days with written notice.
• After agreeing to pay, they have 5 business days to issue payment.
Attorney Don McClure Can Help You Understand What to Do Next
Navigating a car accident claim and the complexities of dealing with insurance adjusters is a significant challenge, especially while recovering. An experienced legal professional can serve as your advocate and shield.
Attorney Don McClure and his team are dedicated to helping accident victims in Houston and the surrounding communities. We understand the tactics insurance companies employ to undervalue claims and are prepared to handle all communications with the adjusters on your behalf.
If you have been injured in an auto accident, we can provide guidance on your rights and help you pursue the full compensation you deserve. Contact our office today for a consultation to discuss the specific details of your case.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or guarantee a specific outcome. Every case is unique.