DIY Injury Settlement Negotiation Script (2025 Word-for-Word)

## Know What to Say Before You Say It

One of the biggest fears for DIY claimants is the phone call with the adjuster. What do you say? What do you avoid? A clear script removes the fear and keeps you in control. This guide gives you practical language for each stage of the negotiation, so you never have to improvise under pressure.

The Golden Rules Behind Every Line

Before the scripts, internalize these principles:

Stick to facts; never speculate.
Never admit fault or minimize your injuries.
Never accept the first offer.
Always tie your position to documentation.
Use silence; let the adjuster fill the gaps.

Every line below flows from these rules. Our [settlement guide](/settlement) helps you know the numbers behind the words.

When the Adjuster First Calls

The first call is information-gathering for them. Keep it short and controlled.

If asked for a recorded statement, say: "I prefer to handle communication in writing. I am happy to provide information and answer specific questions in writing."

If asked how you are feeling, do not say "fine." Say: "I am still treating with my doctor, and I would prefer to let the medical records speak to my injuries."

If pressed about how the accident happened, say: "The facts are documented in the police report. I do not want to speculate beyond what is in the record."

Declining to Discuss Fault

If the adjuster probes for an admission, say: "I am not going to speculate about fault. The evidence and the police report establish what happened."

If they assert you were partly at fault, say: "Can you put the basis for that in writing? I will respond with the evidence." Then rebut it with documentation rather than arguing on the call. Our [injury types guide](/injury-type) helps you frame the liability evidence.

Responding to the First Offer

When the lowball arrives, do not react emotionally. Say: "Thank you for the offer. It does not reflect the documented damages in this claim. Can you walk me through how you arrived at that number?"

Make them justify it. Then say: "Based on the medical bills, lost wages, and the severity of the injury, the claim is worth substantially more. I will be sending a counter supported by documentation."

Notice you are not accepting, not arguing emotionally, and not revealing any urgency.

Delivering Your Counteroffer

When you counter, anchor with confidence: "Based on the documented damages, including the medical bills, the lost wages, and the pain and suffering supported by my records, I am countering at X dollars. The supporting documentation is attached."

Then stop talking. Let the silence work. Do not sweeten your number before they respond.

When They Say It Is Their Final Offer

Adjusters say this often, and it is rarely true. Respond calmly: "I understand, but that figure does not match the documented value of this claim. I am prepared to be patient to reach a fair resolution."

Then wait. Patience signals you will not cave, which often unlocks more authority on their side.

When They Apply Pressure

If the adjuster pressures you to settle quickly, say: "I am not going to rush this. I want to make sure the settlement reflects all of my damages before I close the claim."

If they imply you have no other options, say: "I am aware of my options, including escalating this claim if we cannot reach a fair number." Our [attorney guide](/lawyer) explains those options.

Making and Justifying Concessions

When you do move, move small and tie it to a reason: "I am willing to come down modestly to X dollars to reach a resolution, but the core value of this claim is supported by the documentation, and I cannot go below a fair figure."

Each concession should feel earned by the adjuster, never given freely.

Closing the Deal

When you reach a fair number, confirm it in writing: "I accept X dollars to resolve the bodily injury claim. Please send the settlement release and a breakdown, and I will review it before signing."

Never sign on the call. Always review the release carefully first, confirming the amount and scope.

What Never to Say

Avoid these phrases entirely:

"I am sorry" or any apology.
"I feel fine" or "I am okay."
"I just want this over with."
"I need the money."
Any guess about speed, distance, or fault.

These statements hand the adjuster ammunition. Silence is always safer than a careless remark.

Document Every Call

After each call, write down the date, who you spoke with, what was offered, and what was said. Confirm key points by email. This record protects you and demonstrates good-faith negotiation if you must escalate.

Mind the Deadline

Do not let scripted patience drag you past your filing deadline. If negotiations stall near the cutoff, preserve your rights. See our [statute of limitations overview](/statute).

Bottom Line

A clear script keeps you calm and in control during adjuster calls. Stick to facts, decline recorded statements, never accept the first offer, anchor your counter with documentation, and use silence. Avoid the phrases that hand the adjuster ammunition, and never sign on the call. With the right words ready, you negotiate from strength. For more, see our [FAQ](/faq).