Arizona · Personal injury · Trial-ready representation
Why the other side's insurance adjuster is calling, what they're actually doing, and how to handle the conversation without hurting your case.
You’ve been in a crash. Within a day or two — sometimes within hours — the phone rings and a friendly voice introduces themselves as an adjuster from the other driver’s insurance company. They want to “get your side of the story” and “see what they can do to help.” The instinct to be cooperative is strong. It’s also exactly what the adjuster is counting on.
The short version
Locking in the facts before you know them
Most injuries don't fully reveal themselves for days or weeks. The adjuster wants you on record now — when you'll instinctively downplay how badly you're hurt — so they can hold you to those words later.
Looking for words that imply fault
"I'm sorry," "I didn't see them," "I might have been going a little fast" — these get pulled out and replayed during settlement.
Building a comparative-fault argument
Arizona reduces your recovery by your percentage of fault. The adjuster is gathering material to push that percentage up.
Floating an early lowball offer
If they can resolve the claim before you understand the full scope of your injuries — or before you talk to a lawyer — they pay much less.
Asking you to sign a "medical authorization"
Often broader than it needs to be. A blanket release lets them dig through your entire medical history looking for something to blame.
Be polite. Don't be detailed.
"I'm getting medical treatment and I'd rather not get into the details right now" is a complete answer.
Confirm basic logistics only.
Confirm your name, that you were in the crash, and the date. That's it.
Decline the recorded statement.
You are not required to give one. "I'm not comfortable doing that today" is enough.
Don't accept a quick offer.
An early offer made before you've completed treatment is almost always a fraction of what the case is worth.
Don't sign anything.
Especially not medical authorizations or releases. Your lawyer will narrow them dramatically.
Get the adjuster's name and claim number.
Then end the call and call a lawyer.
Different rules. Your own insurance contract typically requires you to cooperate with your insurer — including for your UM/UIM (uninsured/underinsured motorist) claim, MedPay claim, and collision claim. But “cooperate” doesn’t mean “give a recorded statement on day one with no legal advice.” Even with your own carrier, it’s reasonable to wait a few days, get medical care, and talk to a lawyer first. If your carrier insists on an immediate recorded statement, that’s a signal to bring an attorney into the conversation now — not later.
Once you have a lawyer, the lawyer becomes the only contact. We send a representation letter to the carrier, and from that point on, the adjuster contacts the firm — not you. The calls stop, and the case gets worked up the right way.
Free consultation
Every case is different. A short call with a Big Dog Law attorney can answer the question that actually matters for your situation.
