Should I Give a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company?

After a wreck, it won’t take long before the insurance company calls—and they’ll usually ask if you’re okay doing a “quick recorded statement.”  Sounds harmless, right?

Not so fast.

The Real Reason They Want a Recorded Statement

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize what they pay out. A recorded statement gives them an opportunity to:

• Lock you into a version of events before you’ve had time to fully process what happened
• Use your own words against you later
• Get you to admit fault—even unintentionally

And once it’s recorded, it’s hard to take back.

Do I Have to Give a Statement?

To the other driver’s insurance? Absolutely not. You are under no obligation to give them a recorded statement. In fact, doing so without legal advice can put your claim at risk.

What About My Own Insurance?

If you’re filing a Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM) claim or using certain coverages under your own policy, you may be contractually required to cooperate with your insurer—and that can include giving a statement.  This is exactly where having an experienced attorney makes all the difference.  We help our clients understand what’s required, what’s optional, and how to protect themselves—without saying something that could be used against them later.

Why the Insurance Company Doesn’t Really Need Your Statement

In many clear liability cases, the at-fault insurance company already has access to:

• Their own insured’s statement about what happened
• The police report, which often includes diagrams and witness information
• Medical records, which speak for themselves when it comes to your injuries

So why do they still ask for a recorded statement? Simple—they’re hoping you’ll say something they can use to reduce or deny your claim.

Common Pitfalls in Recorded Statements

Even innocent comments can work against you, like:

• “I didn’t see them coming…” (sounds like you weren’t paying attention)
• “I’m okay” (before symptoms fully develop)
• “It happened so fast…” (makes you sound unsure)

Insurance adjusters are trained to steer the conversation in a way that favors them—not you.

What You Should Remember

A recorded statement might sound routine—but it can have serious consequences. Don’t give one without guidance.

Call us first at (985) 590-6182 for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll make sure your rights are protected.

Flattmann Law serves clients on the Northshore, including Covington, Mandeville, Abita Springs, Bogalusa, Franklinton, Folsom, Madisonville, Goodbee, Hammond, Lacombe, Pearl River, and Slidell.