Should I Talk to the Insurance Adjuster Without a Lawyer? Key Questions to Ask Before You Decide

February 17, 2026, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

After a car collision or other serious accident, it is common to receive a call from an insurance adjuster within days. Before you decide how much to say, it is helpful to understand the risks.

In Kitchener Waterloo and across Ontario, our car accident lawyers regularly hear from people who have already given detailed statements.

What is the adjuster’s role?

Adjusters work for the insurer, not for you. If your injuries are significant or potentially permanent, you may benefit from speaking with our catastrophic injury lawyers before agreeing to a recorded statement.

Do I have to give a recorded statement?

You usually do not have to give a detailed recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. A brief consultation with one of our car accident lawyers in Kitchener Waterloo can help you decide whether and how to proceed.

Could I be underestimating my injuries?

Early after a crash, you may not appreciate that you have suffered a brain injury or spinal cord injury . It is safer to focus on what you know and to say that investigations and treatment are ongoing.

Do I understand my rights and benefits?

You may be entitled to accident benefits, tort compensation, and long term disability. Review our long term disability claims FAQ and, where appropriate, consult our catastrophic injury lawyers for guidance on long term needs.

When is it especially risky to speak without a lawyer?

It is particularly risky if you have ongoing pain, potential neurological issues, or have been told your injuries might be catastrophic. In those situations, our brain injury, spinal cord injury, and catastrophic injury teams can help protect your interests from the outset.

How can a lawyer help with adjuster communications?

Our highly experienced accident lawyers can handle communications with adjusters, ensure accurate information is provided, and help you avoid common pitfalls that can affect both personal injury and long term disability claims.

Making an informed choice

Before speaking in detail with any adjuster, consider at least a short consultation. You can contact our car accident and automobile accident lawyers and review our LTD FAQ  if you are also off work due to your injuries.

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.