Can My Statement to the Insurance Adjuster Hurt My Injury Case in Illinois?

 Posted on November 23, 2025 in Personal Injury

After an accident, you may receive a quick call from an insurance adjuster asking for your side of the story. It might seem like a simple step toward resolving your claim, but yes, what you say can have a lasting impact and may hurt your case later. You likely would not even realize why your insurance statement could be used against you in your personal injury case.

Insurance companies often record these conversations and look for anything you said that they can use to reduce payouts. Before talking to an adjuster, speak with an experienced Palatine, IL personal injury lawyer. That is the first step in protecting your claim.

Can a Recorded Statement Be Used Against You in an Illinois Injury Case?

Insurance companies often claim that recording your statement helps them process your claim faster. In reality, they can use your own words to challenge your version of events. Under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule. According to this law, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault if you are found partly responsible for an accident. Even small comments like "I did not see the other car" or "I looked down for a second" can be used to suggest partial fault.

Once your statement is recorded, the insurance company can analyze every word, looking for inconsistencies or signs that your injuries are less serious than you claim. That is why attorneys often recommend refusing a recorded statement until you have received legal guidance.

What Should You Avoid Saying to an Insurance Adjuster?

Adjusters are trained to protect their company’s financial interests, not yours. Their questions may seem casual, but they are designed to gather information that limits what they have to pay. Some things you want to avoid include:

• Admitting or guessing who caused the accident

• Describing your injuries before a medical exam

• Providing estimates of time, distance, or speed

• Minimizing pain by saying you feel "fine" or "better"

While the law under 215 ILCS 5/154.6 prohibits insurers from using unfair claim practices, they can still use your own statements against you if you volunteer information. The safest approach is to remain polite but brief and refer them to your attorney for further questions.

What Can You Say Safely to an Insurance Adjuster?

You can confirm simple details like your name, contact information, and policy number. You can also verify where and when the accident occurred. Beyond that, it is best to let your attorney handle the rest. Anything involving fault, injuries, or treatment should only be shared under legal advice.

How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Protect You During Insurance Talks?

Your attorney can act as your voice when dealing with the insurance company. We know the common tactics adjusters use and can help you avoid miscommunication or misrepresentation. A lawyer ensures that your medical records, witness statements, and accident reports are presented accurately and persuasively.

Having professional representation also shows the insurer that you are serious about your claim. This often leads to fairer settlement offers and less pressure to accept quick, low payments. With your lawyer handling communications, you can focus on recovery.

Contact Our Rolling Meadows, IL Personal Injury Attorney Today

If you were hurt in an accident, it is important to remember that even a few words to an insurance adjuster can change the outcome of your case. Our Palatine, IL personal injury lawyers understand how insurers operate, and we know how to protect you from potential bad faith tactics. Our legal team includes local attorneys who value both their clients and the communities they serve. With many decades of combined experience and millions of dollars in successful verdicts, we have built a strong reputation for standing up to insurance companies and fighting for fair results.

Let our dedicated attorneys guide you through the legal process. Call Newland & Newland, LLP at 847-797-8000 to schedule your free consultation today.