Key Takeaways
- Insurance adjusters are not on your side—they work for the insurer, not for you.
- Be cautious with what you say during recorded statements, as it can be used against your claim.
- You have the right to refuse quick settlement offers that may undervalue your case.
- In Georgia, you are not required to speak with the at-fault driver’s insurer without legal advice.
- Hiring an attorney early can help protect your claim and increase your potential settlement.
What Is the Role of an Insurance Adjuster?
Insurance adjusters are paid to minimize payouts for the insurance company. Their goals include:
- Investigating your accident
- Determining who was at fault
- Calculating your damages—usually at the lowest possible amount
- Getting you to accept a quick settlement before you talk to a lawyer
Even when they sound friendly, their job is to protect the company’s bottom line, not your recovery.
Should I Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?
No—not without speaking to an attorney first.
Georgia law does not require you to speak to the at-fault driver’s insurer. Doing so could harm your case, especially if you:
- Apologize or admit partial blame
- Say you feel “fine” (even if symptoms arise later)
- Share unnecessary details they can twist against you
Always refer the insurer to your lawyer or politely decline the call.
What Should I Never Say to an Adjuster?
Avoid saying:
- “I’m not hurt.” Injuries may not show up immediately.
- “It was partly my fault.” This can reduce or eliminate your claim under Georgia’s comparative negligence laws.
- “I’ll take the offer.” Don’t accept anything without legal review.
- “I don’t need a lawyer.” This tells them they can control the process.
Can I Decline a Recorded Statement?
Yes. You are under no obligation to give a recorded statement to the other party’s insurer. These statements are often used to catch you off guard or misrepresent your words.
Even your own insurer might request a recorded statement—but you can schedule it with legal guidance.
Why Do Insurance Companies Make Lowball Offers?
Insurance companies often try to settle quickly for less than your claim is worth. They know:
- You may not understand the full value of your case
- You might be financially stressed and eager for any money
- Once you accept a settlement, you can’t ask for more—even if new injuries or costs arise
That’s why having an attorney review any offer before accepting is so important.
How Can a Lawyer Help With the Insurance Process?
An experienced personal injury lawyer can:
- Handle all communication with insurers
- Prevent you from saying something that hurts your case
- Calculate your true case value (including future care or lost earnings)
- Negotiate for a fair settlement—or take the case to court if needed
Victims who work with attorneys often receive significantly higher settlements than those who go it alone.
FAQs About Insurance Negotiations After a Georgia Crash
Q: What if I already gave a statement—can I still hire a lawyer?
A: Yes. But act quickly to limit further damage to your claim.
Q: Can the insurance company deny my claim?
A: They can try—but a lawyer can push back with evidence and legal arguments.
Q: What if the insurance company says I don’t need a lawyer?
A: That’s a red flag. It often means they know your claim is valuable.
Q: Should I accept the first settlement offer?
A: Rarely. Most first offers are lowball attempts to close your case cheaply.
Q: Can I still get compensation if I was partly at fault?
A: Yes—if you were less than 50% at fault under Georgia law.
Get Legal Protection After a Georgia Car Accident
Dealing with insurers after a crash can be confusing and intimidating. At Hines Law, we fight to protect your rights and ensure you get what you deserve—not what the insurance company wants to pay.