Never Say This to an Insurance Company After a Car Accident

A car accident can leave more than just dents and bruises. It can shake your nerves, flood you with stress, and leave you wondering what to do next. And when the insurance company calls, the pressure to say the “right thing” can feel overwhelming. The truth is, what you say—or don’t say—can make a big difference in the outcome of your claim.

Let’s get one thing clear: insurance companies are not your enemy, but they’re also not your best friend. Their goal is to settle claims quickly and save money. That means if you’re not careful with your words, you might end up hurting your chances of getting a fair payout.

In Boulder, Colorado, where the streets can get busy, and mountain weather can turn roads slippery in minutes, accidents are not uncommon. If you’re dealing with a crash in this city, speaking to a Boulder accident attorney before giving a full statement to an insurance adjuster can save you from common and costly mistakes.

1. “I’m Sorry”

Saying sorry might be second nature, especially after a stressful event like a crash. But even if you’re just trying to be polite, these two words can sound like an admission of guilt. Insurance adjusters may take this as a sign that you’re accepting blame, which can reduce your claim or deny it altogether. Instead, stick to the facts and let the investigation speak for itself.

2. “It Was My Fault”

This is one of the worst things you can say after an accident, even if you think it might be true. In many cases, the fault isn’t clear right away. There could be other factors involved, like road conditions or actions of the other driver. Admitting fault too early can shut down the chance of a proper investigation and cost you financially.

3. “I’m Not Hurt”

You might feel fine right after the accident, but injuries like whiplash, back pain, or even internal damage can take hours or days to show up. Saying “I’m not hurt” can work against you later if symptoms appear and you need to seek compensation. It’s safer to say, “I’m getting checked out by a doctor,” and leave it at that.

4. “Here’s What Happened…”

You don’t have to tell the whole story to the insurance company right away. Giving too many details—especially while emotions are still high—can lead to inconsistencies. These can be used to question your credibility later on. Let your lawyer handle the in-depth explanations, especially if the case becomes complicated.

5. “Yes, You Can Record Me”

Some insurers may ask for a recorded statement. You have the right to say no. Once something is on record, it’s hard to take it back—even if it was said in confusion or under stress. Always talk to an attorney before agreeing to anything official.

6. “I Think…” or “Maybe…”

Uncertainty can be twisted to sound like dishonesty. Phrases like “I think he ran the light” or “Maybe I didn’t see the stop sign” can weaken your version of events. If you’re unsure about something, it’s okay to say, “I’m not certain,” and leave it there.

What Should You Say Instead?

Stick to the basics. Confirm your name, the date and time of the accident, and that you’re seeking medical care. Beyond that, it’s smart to let a legal professional step in and guide you.

Wrapping Up

After an accident, what you say to the insurance company can shape how your case plays out. It’s tempting to talk through the situation, explain your side, or try to be nice. But being cautious and letting your attorney do the talking can make all the difference.