The insurance adjuster calling you after a Georgia accident is not there to help you. Their job is to resolve your claim for as little money as possible. Understanding adjuster tactics gives you the tools to protect yourself.
The Early Recorded Statement Request
One of the first things an adjuster will ask for is a recorded statement — an on-the-record account of the accident and your injuries. You have no legal obligation to give the adverse insurer (the at-fault driver’s insurer) a recorded statement. Early recorded statements are used to lock you into accounts that can later be challenged, and to capture minimizing language about your injuries (“I’m feeling okay” or “I’m a little sore”) that undercuts your claim value. Decline all recorded statement requests from adverse insurers and direct further contact to your attorney.
The Quick Settlement Offer
If an adjuster contacts you quickly with a settlement offer — especially before you have finished treatment — it is almost always because they know the claim is worth significantly more than what they are offering. Quick offers are designed to resolve claims before the full extent of injuries is known. Never accept a settlement offer before reaching Maximum Medical Improvement. Once you sign a release, the claim is closed permanently.
Minimizing Your Injuries
Adjusters are trained to find language in medical records, social media posts, or your own statements that minimizes injury severity. “Mild” pain descriptors from early emergency room visits, pre-existing conditions in the injured area, and gaps in treatment are all used to argue your injuries were not caused by the accident or not as severe as claimed. Do not discuss your injuries with adjusters — your medical records speak for themselves.
Comparative Fault Arguments
Under Georgia’s modified comparative fault rule (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33), if an adjuster can assign 50 percent or more of fault to you, your claim is barred entirely. Adjusters ask questions designed to elicit admissions of fault: “Were you speeding?” “Did you see them before the crash?” “Why didn’t you brake earlier?” Do not answer these questions without counsel.
Your Own Insurer Is Not Always on Your Side
Even your own UM/UIM insurer has a financial incentive to minimize your claim when you seek coverage from your own policy. Georgia’s bad faith statute (O.C.G.A. § 33-4-6) gives you legal recourse if your own insurer acts in bad faith.
A Georgia accident attorney handles all adjuster communications on your behalf. A free evaluation costs nothing. Call today before speaking to any adjuster about your claim.