After a car accident, one of the first calls you may receive is from the insurance company—sometimes even within hours. They may sound friendly, concerned, and eager to “help process your claim.” Then comes the request that catches many victims off guard:
“Can we take a quick recorded statement?”
While this may sound routine, giving a recorded statement is one of the most common mistakes injury victims make. Insurance companies use recorded statements not to help you—but to protect their bottom line. What you say can and will be used against you to reduce or deny your injury claim.
At Mansfield Melancon Injury Lawyers, we strongly advise accident victims to NEVER give a recorded statement without speaking to an attorney first. Here’s why.
What Is a Recorded Statement?
A recorded statement is a formal, documented interview conducted by an insurance adjuster. The adjuster will ask questions about:
- How the accident happened
- Whether you feel injured
- Your medical history
- Your symptoms
- Your daily activities
While this seems harmless, these questions are carefully designed to gather information the insurer can use to limit your payout.
How Recorded Statements Hurt Your Claim
Your Words Can Be Taken Out of Context
Adjusters are trained to ask leading questions that result in answers favorable to the insurance company. Even innocent responses like “I’m feeling okay” can later be framed as proof you weren’t injured.
You May Not Know the Extent of Your Injuries Yet
Many serious injuries—whiplash, concussions, herniated discs, internal injuries—don’t show symptoms immediately. If you say “I’m not hurt” early on, insurers may argue your injuries aren’t related to the crash.
Adjusters Look for Inconsistencies
You may be asked the same question in multiple ways. Any slight variation in your answers may be used to claim you’re exaggerating or lying.
You’re Not Required to Give One
Most people don’t realize this. The at-fault driver’s insurer cannot force you to provide a recorded statement, even if they claim it’s “mandatory.”
They Can Use Your Past Against You
Adjusters may ask about past injuries or medical conditions to shift blame away from the accident and onto pre-existing issues.
Insurance Companies Want to Close Claims Fast
Early statements help them push you into a quick, low settlement—before you know the full value of your injuries.
Statements Are Permanent
Once recorded, your words become part of the official claim file. Even if you later correct yourself, insurers will rely heavily on the original statement.
What You Should Do Instead
Decline the recorded statement politely.
You can simply say:
“I am not comfortable giving a recorded statement. I will have my attorney contact you.”
Speak with a personal injury lawyer immediately.
An attorney will handle all communication with the insurance company and make sure your rights are protected.
Focus on your medical treatment.
The most important thing after a crash is ensuring your health is documented and treated properly.
Keep communication brief and factual.
Never speculate. Never apologize. Never guess. These can all be used against you.
When Are Recorded Statements Required?
Your own insurance company may require a recorded statement under the terms of your policy—especially if you are filing an uninsured/underinsured motorist claim. Even then, you should only give a statement with a lawyer present.
When to Hire a Lawyer
You should contact an attorney before speaking to any insurance representative if:
- You were injured in the accident
- You are unsure about the extent of your injuries
- The insurer is pressuring you for a recorded statement
- You feel overwhelmed or unsure what to say
- You want to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve
An experienced lawyer prevents insurers from twisting your words and ensures your claim is handled properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to give a recorded statement?
Not to the other driver’s insurance company. Your own insurer may require one, but only with legal guidance.
What if I already gave a recorded statement?
A lawyer can still help protect your claim and manage any issues created by the early statement.
Why do insurance companies want statements quickly?
To limit their financial exposure before your injuries fully develop or are documented.
Can a recorded statement reduce my settlement?
Absolutely. Many claims are undervalued because of statements made too soon.
Contact Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If an insurance company is pressuring you for a recorded statement, you need legal protection immediately. At Mansfield Melancon Injury Lawyers, we help accident victims avoid costly mistakes and maximize their compensation.
Contact us today for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
We proudly serve East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette Parish, Orleans Parish, and their surrounding areas:
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Baton Rouge Office
404 Europe Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70124
(225) 263-4787
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
365 Canal Street Suite 415
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70130
(504) 294-3804
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Lafayette Office
1318 Camellia Boulevard Suite 206
Lafayette, Louisiana, 70508
(337) 473-2991
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Metairie Office
111 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Suite 255
Metairie, Louisiana, 70005
(888) 601-0127