6 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Give a Recorded Statement After an Accident

After a car accident, it’s common for insurance companies to reach out quickly—sometimes within a few hours—asking for a recorded statement. They may say it’s “routine” or that it will help move your claim forward. With everything happening at once, you might feel pressured to cooperate. But agreeing to a recorded conversation can put you at a serious disadvantage.
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Whether it’s your own insurer or the other driver’s, it’s important to understand why these requests are made and how they can impact your case. Before you decide, here are six reasons why you should think twice before giving a recorded statement to insurance companies.

1. Insurance companies use recorded statements against you

Insurance adjusters aren’t calling just to “clarify details.” Remember—they work for the insurance company, not for you. And their goal is to pay out as little as possible, which is why they need something they can replay, dissect, and twist.

2. You may not have all the facts yet

Giving recorded statements to insurance companies right after an accident is risky because you’re still stressed, confused, or possibly injured. Accidents happen fast, your memory can be shaky, and there might be evidence you haven’t seen yet. Furthermore, you may have injuries that appear later.

3. Innocent mistakes can be treated like contradictions

People naturally misspeak, especially when they’re nervous. A small wording change or hesitation can be spun into a contradiction. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask specific questions to limit payouts. They may ask confusing questions or try to get you to agree to statements that aren’t accurate.

4. You are NOT legally required to give a recorded statement to the other insurance company

This is one of the most common questions: “Can I refuse a recorded statement to an insurance company?” If it’s the other driver’s insurer, YES—you can refuse, and you absolutely should. Even with your own insurance company, you should talk to a lawyer first. Your policy may require cooperation, but that doesn’t mean you must go in unprepared or unrepresented.

5. Your lawyer can communicate for you

Let’s briefly discuss the role of personal injury attorneys in such situations. One of the biggest benefits of hiring an attorney after a crash is that they take over all communication. Your attorney can handle calls from adjusters, provide written statements on your behalf, and make sure you don’t say anything that hurts your claim. ​This allows you to focus on recovery instead of dealing with insurance companies directly.

6. A recorded statement can impact your settlement

Once a statement is recorded, it becomes a permanent part of your claim file. Even small phrases like “I’m not sure, or “I’m okay” can be used to reduce the value of your case. This can impact your recorded statement for a car insurance claim, property damage claim, injury claim, or any future legal action. So, what should you do instead?

If an insurance company wants a recorded statement, you can politely decline until you’ve talked to an attorney. Remember, you have the right to protect yourself and your claim.

Need a Personal Injury Lawyer in North Hollywood or Glendale?

A recorded statement after an accident might seem like a standard part of the process, but it can easily work against you. Insurance companies are trained to use your words to minimize your payout. Before you agree to anything—especially a recorded conversation—you should speak with a personal injury attorney who can guide you, protect your rights, and help you build a strong case.

If you’ve been asked to provide a statement and you’re unsure what to do, contact us to schedule a consultation with a car accident lawyer in North Hollywood or request to speak with one of our Glendale personal injury lawyers.

​With clients all over Southern California, Yepremyan Law Firm has been a trusted legal advisor since 1998. Our personal injury law firm in North Hollywood provides 24/7 support and free case evaluations to discuss your needs. Call us today and let us know how we can help. 

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