What Not to Say to Insurance After a Sherman Oaks Accident

Arya Firoozmand, Esq. — Founding Partner

Local Sherman Oaks Injury Attorney · UCLA Law

Arya Firoozmand is the founding partner at L&F Brown. He grew up in the San Fernando Valley, graduated from El Camino Real High School and UCLA Law School, and has spent his career representing injured clients across the Valley — including Sherman Oaks and the 405 corridor.

After a car accident in Sherman Oaks, what you say to an insurance adjuster can make or break your claim. Adjusters are trained interviewers who know how to extract statements that minimize their company's liability. One casual remark about feeling okay, or a vague answer about what happened on Ventura Blvd or the 101, can cost you thousands of dollars in compensation.

Here is what to avoid saying, and why each phrase is dangerous.

Never Say: 'I'm Fine' or 'I'm Not Hurt'

After an adrenaline-charged crash on Van Nuys Blvd or the 405, you may genuinely feel okay in the moment. But soft tissue injuries, concussions, and internal trauma often take hours or days to show symptoms. If you tell an adjuster you are fine right after the crash, that statement can be used to undermine any injury claim you make later, even one that is entirely legitimate.

Never Say: 'It Was Partly My Fault'

California uses a comparative fault system. If you admit even partial responsibility, the insurer will use that admission to reduce your payout. Even if you think you may have contributed to the crash at the US-101/I-405 interchange or on Sepulveda Blvd, let the investigators and attorneys determine fault based on evidence. Never volunteer an admission at the scene or on the phone with an adjuster.

Never Guess About What Happened

If you are not sure about a detail, say so. Do not speculate about speed, timing, or the sequence of events. Guesses that turn out to be wrong can be used against you. If CHP responded to a freeway crash, their report will contain objective data. Let that document speak for itself.

Never Say: 'I Accept Your Settlement Offer'

An early settlement offer from the other driver's insurer is almost never in your best interest. Insurance companies offer fast money to close claims before victims understand the full cost of their injuries. Medical treatment at Sherman Oaks Hospital, follow-up care, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs can far exceed an initial offer. Once you accept and sign a release, you cannot go back.

Never Give a Recorded Statement Without Counsel

Adjusters may ask permission to record your call. You can decline this request when speaking with the other driver's insurer. If you must give a recorded statement, do so only after consulting with a Sherman Oaks car accident lawyer who can prepare you and be present.

Never Discuss Your Medical History Casually

Insurers love to find pre-existing conditions they can use to argue your injuries existed before the crash. If they ask about your health history, do not provide extensive detail without guidance. Your attorney will work with your medical records to show what the accident caused or worsened, separate from anything pre-existing.

What You Should Say

Keep it simple. Confirm your name and contact information, the date and location of the crash, and the names of the other parties involved. State that you are seeking medical attention and consulting with an attorney. That is enough.

For help navigating insurance communication after your accident, contact L&F Brown serving Sherman Oaks. Our free consultations are confidential and our attorneys will handle the adjusters so you do not have to.