Should I Give a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company? (Virginia + North Carolina)

After a crash, it’s common for an insurance adjuster to call quickly—sometimes within hours—and ask for a recorded statement. They may sound friendly and make it seem like a routine step to “move your claim forward.” But in many cases, a recorded statement can be used to reduce the value of your claim or even justify a denial later.

Here’s what you should know in both Virginia and North Carolina before you agree to record anything.

What Is a Recorded Statement?

A recorded statement is an interview where an insurance adjuster records your answers about the accident, injuries, and what happened before and after the collision. Insurance companies often look for anything they can use to challenge:

• who was at fault,

• how serious your injuries are,

• whether your medical treatment was “necessary,” or

• whether your story is “consistent.”

Even small, innocent comments can be taken out of context later.

Do I Have to Give One?

If it’s the other driver’s insurance company (VA or NC)

In most situations, you are not required to give the other driver’s insurance company a recorded statement. Remember: that adjuster works for the company that may have to pay you. Their job is to protect the insurer’s bottom line.

If it’s your own insurance company

This can be different. Your policy may require you to cooperate, especially if you’re using coverage like:

• uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage,

• medical payments coverage, or

• collision coverage.
  

Even then, you can often ask to schedule it later, provide key information in writing, or have your attorney handle communications so you don’t accidentally hurt your claim.

Why Giving One Too Soon Can Hurt You

Right after a wreck, you may be in shock or running on adrenaline. Pain and symptoms often show up later—sometimes days later. If you give a recorded statement too early and say something like:

• “I’m fine,”

• “I don’t think I’m hurt,” or

• “I’m not sure what happened,”

the insurer may use that to argue your injuries aren’t real or aren’t related to the crash.

Adjusters are trained to ask questions in ways that guide your answers, such as:

• “So you didn’t see the other car until the last second?”

• “You were able to walk around afterward, correct?”

• “Would you agree the weather played a part?”

These questions aren’t always as neutral as they sound.

Important Timing Difference: Virginia vs. North Carolina

Deadlines matter, and they’re not the same in both states:

• Virginia: Many personal injury lawsuits must be filed within 2 years.

• North Carolina: Many personal injury lawsuits must be filed within 3 years.

There are exceptions depending on the type of case, so getting legal advice early is important—especially for crashes near the VA/NC line.

What Should I Do If They Call?

If an adjuster requests a recorded statement, you can keep it simple:

• “I’m not prepared to give a recorded statement right now.”

• “Please send your questions in writing.”

• “I’ll respond after I’ve spoken with counsel.”

Polite. Firm. No extra details.

Talk to Charles M. Aaron Attorneys at Law Before You Record Anything

If you’ve been asked to give a recorded statement—and your accident happened in Virginia or North Carolina—it’s smart to get guidance first. A quick conversation can help you avoid mistakes that could cost you.

📞 Call Charles M. Aaron Attorneys at Law: 276-638-3866. We serve Martinsville, VA and also assist clients across North Carolina.

This article is general information and not legal advice. Every case is different—talk to an attorney about your specific situation.