What to Say (and Not Say) to the Insurance Company in Pennsylvania
Adjusters are not on your side. In Pennsylvania, where fault percentages and your tort election drive what you recover, a few careless words can shrink your claim. Here's how to protect yourself.
Short answer: Report the accident to your own insurer as your policy requires, but keep it factual and brief. You are not required to give the other driver's insurer a recorded statement, and anything you say can be used to raise your fault percentage under Pennsylvania's 51% rule.
What should I not say to an insurance adjuster?
- "I'm fine": Adrenaline masks injuries that surface days later.
- "It was partly my fault": Never admit or guess about fault — in Pennsylvania your fault percentage directly reduces (or eliminates) your recovery.
- "I don't have a lawyer": This signals you may accept a lowball offer.
- Broad medical authorizations: Don't sign a blanket release of your entire medical history without advice.
What should I say instead?
- Basic facts only: your name and the date and location of the crash.
- "I'm still receiving medical treatment."
- "I'd prefer to handle communications through my attorney."
Do I have to give a recorded statement in Pennsylvania?
You generally must cooperate with your own insurer under your policy. But you are not legally required to give a recorded statement to the other party's insurer — politely decline.
What about my own PIP / medical benefits?
Pennsylvania is a choice no-fault state, so your own auto policy's medical benefits (PIP, minimum $5,000) usually pay initial medical bills regardless of fault. Cooperate to access those benefits, but still keep fault discussions for your attorney. Understand why the first offer is usually too low before you respond, and organize your claim first.
This is general information about Pennsylvania law, not legal advice for your specific claim.
Preguntas frecuentes
Do I have to give the other driver's insurance company a recorded statement in Pennsylvania?
No. You are not legally required to give a recorded statement to the other party's insurer, though you generally must cooperate with your own insurer under your policy.
Will my own insurance pay my medical bills after a Pennsylvania crash?
Usually yes at first. Pennsylvania is a choice no-fault state, so your own policy's PIP medical benefits (minimum $5,000) typically cover initial medical costs regardless of who was at fault.