Read This Before You Do
If you were in a car accident and the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, what you say — or don’t say — can impact your entire claim. Many people ask:
“Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company?”
The short answer: Yes, but be extremely careful. Their goal is to protect their bottom line — not to help you.
In this guide, we’ll explain when you should talk to the other driver’s insurer, what to say, what to avoid, and how to protect your claim from being lowballed or denied.
When the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Will Call You
If the other party reported the crash, their insurer may try to:
- Collect a statement from you
- Request photos or documentation
- Ask questions about injuries or fault
- Push you toward a quick settlement
They may seem polite, but make no mistake — they’re trained to reduce payouts.
Should I Speak to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?
✔️ Yes, if:
- You’re filing a third-party claim because the other driver was at fault
- They need basic info like your name, contact details, or vehicle make/model
🅇 No, if:
- They ask for a recorded statement
- They push you to admit fault or ask if you’re “feeling fine”
- They pressure you to accept a settlement quickly
- You don’t yet have a copy of the police report or know your full injuries
Pro Tip: Always speak with caution and avoid discussing fault, injuries, or making guesses. Stick to the facts only.
What to Say (And What Not To)
What You Can Say:
- Your full name
- Vehicle information
- Where and when the accident happened
What You Shouldn't Say:
- "I think I was partially at fault."
- "I'm not injured." (Injuries can show up days later.)
- "Yes, I'll give a recorded statement."
- "I'll accept the offer." (Without reviewing damages or medical evaluations)
Talking to Insurance After an Accident That's Not Your Fault
If you were not at fault, you have the right to pursue a third-party claim. But that doesn't mean you should hand over your story to the other driver's adjuster on a silver platter.
Make sure you've gathered:
- A copy of the police report
- Documentation of all damages
- Medical records (if applicable)
Need help getting the accident report to support your case?
Visit BetterClaims Accident Resources to speak with an agent.
Do You Have to Talk to the Other Insurance Company?
No. You are not legally required to give a statement to the other driver's insurance. If you're uncomfortable or unsure, you can say:
"I'm still reviewing the accident and prefer to communicate in writing."
"I'll get back to you after I have the full police report."
"I'm not comfortable giving a statement at this time."
How BetterClaims Can Help
At BetterClaims, we can connect you with an independent attorney who can help you understand your rights after an accident — including how to handle insurance company questions that may impact your claim
We provide:
- General, educational information about what typically happens after an accident and common next steps people may encounter.
- Resources to help you get your police report
- General information regarding the post-accident process
Don't let the insurance company control the conversation. We can connect you with attorneys who will help you take it back.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, but you are not required to answer their questions without preparation.
If you’ve already provided a statement, it may help to make note of what was discussed. Avoid making additional statements without understanding your options, and consider consulting with a qualified attorney who can advise you based on your situation.
Insurance companies may request recorded statements early in the claims process. These statements can sometimes be used to challenge or limit a claim. Before agreeing to provide one, it’s often advisable to understand your options and consider consulting with a qualified attorney.
Protect Your Claim
If you’re unsure whether you should talk to the other driver’s insurance company, it’s important to understand their role: they represent their policyholder, not you. Statements made early in the process can affect how a claim is evaluated. Before discussing details or considering a settlement, it may be wise to understand the full scope of your damages and your available options.