What Not To Say To Insurers

The last time you had a fender-bender did the words “I’m sorry” slip out of your mouth? Big mistake, even if you were. That phrase – which might imply that you were at fault – could put your claim at risk. Stick to the facts and talk to your own insurance company about what you should say to the other driver’s insurer. Here are four words to avoid that raise a red flag when speaking with insurance companies, according to Insure.com.

• “Flood.” Insurers specifically define this as water from a nearby lake, stream, river or other body of water. Flood damage is not covered under standard homeowners insurance so don’t use the word if a pipe broke and your basement has water in it, which may be covered.

• “Experimental.” Health insurance companies don’t tend to cover procedures in this category. You want to convey the fact that the treatment is proven and medically necessary.

• “Whiplash.” Don’t speculate about this injury until you’ve had a diagnosis. It’s a word that shouts “fraud” to many insurance companies.

“In my opinion.” Insurance adjusters may try to get you to speculate about the cause of an accident (Driving too fast? Following too close?) Keep your opinions to yourself, or you may have to eat your words later