You’ve just been in a car accident. You’re shaken, maybe injured, and your car is damaged. Before you’ve even had time to process what happened, the phone rings—it’s the insurance adjuster.
They sound friendly, asking how you’re doing and saying they just need “a quick statement.” But here’s the truth: insurance adjusters are not on your side.
In Tennessee, like everywhere else, adjusters work for the insurance company—not for you. Their job is simple: save their company money by paying you as little as possible. If you don’t know how to handle these conversations, you could say something that weakens your claim.
This guide will walk you through what to expect when dealing with insurance adjusters after a Tennessee car accident—and how to protect yourself every step of the way.
Understanding the Role of an Insurance Adjuster
On the surface, an insurance adjuster’s job sounds straightforward: investigate the accident, determine liability, and decide how much the company should pay out. But make no mistake—adjusters are skilled negotiators trained to minimize claims.
They may:
-
Sound sympathetic to build trust.
-
Ask for a recorded statement that can later be used against you.
-
Push for a quick settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries.
Remember: their loyalty is to their employer, the insurance company—not you.
Common Tactics Adjusters Use in Tennessee
Tennessee is an at-fault state, which means the at-fault driver’s insurance company is usually responsible for paying damages. That means you’ll likely be contacted by their adjuster soon after the crash.
Here are a few tactics you should watch out for:
1. The Friendly Approach
The adjuster might say, “We just want to help you get this resolved quickly.” But this friendliness is designed to make you let your guard down.
2. The Recorded Statement Trap
They may ask you to share “your side of the story.” But even a casual remark like “I didn’t see them” can later be twisted into an admission of fault.
3. Downplaying Your Injuries
An adjuster may claim your injuries are minor or not related to the crash. Without strong medical documentation, they’ll argue you don’t deserve much compensation.
4. The Quick Settlement Offer
They might dangle a fast payout before you know the full cost of your injuries or time off work. But once you accept, you can’t go back for more—even if your expenses skyrocket.
What NOT to Say to an Insurance Adjuster
When you do speak to an adjuster, be careful with your words. Some innocent statements can come back to haunt you:
-
“I’m sorry.” Sounds like an admission of fault.
-
“I feel fine.” Can be used to argue your injuries aren’t serious—even if symptoms appear later.
-
Guesses about details. Don’t speculate on speed, distance, or timing. Stick to the facts you know for sure.
Your safest response to many questions is:
“I’m not comfortable giving a statement until I’ve spoken with my attorney.”
Steps to Protect Yourself After a Tennessee Car Accident
Step 1: Get Medical Treatment Immediately
Even if you feel okay, some injuries—like concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding—don’t show up right away. Getting medical care immediately protects your health and creates documentation for your claim.
Step 2: Document Everything
-
Take photos of the scene, damage, and injuries.
-
Collect witness names and contact information.
-
Keep all bills and receipts related to the accident.
Step 3: Limit Communication with Adjusters
Tennessee law does not require you to provide a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. Politely decline and direct them to your attorney.
Step 4: Consult a Tennessee Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced attorney knows the tactics adjusters use and how to push back. They’ll take over all communication, ensuring you don’t say something that weakens your case.
Why Hiring an Attorney Levels the Playing Field
Insurance companies have teams of professionals working to reduce what they pay you. Without legal representation, you’re at a disadvantage.
A skilled Tennessee car accident lawyer can:
-
Handle all communication with adjusters.
-
Calculate the true value of your claim, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
-
Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement.
-
Represent you in court if the insurance company refuses to pay what you deserve.
Your focus should be on healing—let your lawyer focus on fighting for your rights.
Don’t Let the Insurance Company Control the Narrative
Insurance adjusters may sound friendly, but their job is to protect profits—not people. The best way to protect yourself is to know their tactics, stay cautious in what you say, and get a trusted attorney on your side.
At Davis Legal, we hear from Tennessee car accident victims every day who feel pressured, confused, or bullied by insurance adjusters. Our mission is simple: protect you from these tactics and fight for the compensation you deserve.
From taking the adjuster’s calls to calculating the full value of your claim, we take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on recovery.
If you’ve been injured in a Tennessee car accident, don’t go up against the insurance company alone.
Contact Davis Legal today for a consultation and let us stand up to the insurance company on your behalf.
