What Should I Do if the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Contacts Me?

Your phone keeps buzzing — it’s the other driver’s insurance company again. You’re panicked. Why are they calling me instead of my own insurance? What do they want? What happens if I pick up and say the wrong thing?

Take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to handle this blindly. At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC, our attorneys have been guiding accident victims through this exact situation since 1973. Here’s what you should do right now:

1. Pause before answering — you don’t have to pick up immediately.
2. Understand why they’re calling — their job is to protect their driver, not you.
3. Know what they’ll ask — details about the accident, your injuries, and your recovery.
4. Be aware of the risks — even a casual “I’m fine” can hurt your claim.
5. Remember your rights — you are not required to talk to them.
6. Protect yourself first — consult an attorney before saying a word.

These calls feel stressful, but once you know what’s really happening, you can protect yourself and your claim. Let’s walk through each of these points in detail so you know exactly how to respond when the other driver’s insurance company comes knocking.

Why Is the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Calling Me?

They represent the other driver, not you. Their primary goal is to gather information that will help them limit their financial responsibility for the accident. While it’s normal for them to reach out directly, you need to handle these conversations carefully. They’re not calling to help you—they’re calling to protect their own interests and minimize what they pay out in your claim.

What Questions Will the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Ask Me?

They’ll typically ask about accident details, your injuries, vehicle damage, and any medical treatment you’ve received. However, they may frame questions in ways designed to get you to admit partial fault for the accident. Even casual comments like “I’m fine” or “I didn’t see them coming” can be taken out of context and used against your claim later. Remember, they’re trained to ask questions that benefit their case, not yours.

Can Talking to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Hurt My Claim?

Yes, absolutely. These conversations carry significant risks:

• Recorded statements can be twisted – Your words may be taken out of context to minimize your claim
• They may pressure you for a quick, low settlement – Early offers are often far below what your claim is actually worth
• Any inconsistencies may weaken your credibility – Stress and pain medication can affect your memory and statements

Their priority is protecting their bottom line, not helping with your recovery. They have teams of adjusters trained specifically to reduce claim payouts.

Can I Refuse to Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?

You are not legally required to speak with the other driver’s insurance company. You have safer options:

• Direct them to contact your own insurance company instead
• Politely decline to provide a statement until you’ve spoken with an attorney
• Tell them you’re still receiving medical treatment and will contact them later

Refusing to talk doesn’t harm your case—it actually protects it. You maintain control over your claim while getting the guidance you need to handle it properly.

Do I Need a Lawyer Before Speaking With the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?

Yes, especially if injuries are involved. An attorney can help by:

• Handling all communication with insurance companies
• Protecting you from tactics designed to assign blame
• Working to maximize your compensation based on the full extent of your damages

Even one phone call with an insurance adjuster can significantly affect your case. Legal advice levels the playing field and protects your rights from the very beginning.

Stay Calm and Stay Protected

It’s completely normal to feel panicked when dealing with insurance companies after an accident, but you don’t have to handle these calls alone. You have the right to stay silent and seek professional help.

Contact an experienced car accident attorney at Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC today before saying anything to the other driver’s insurance company. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case.