Injured? Be Careful About Being "Too Polite" — It Could Hurt Your Case

Here in Indiana — and across the Midwest — we’re known for being polite. We say "I'm fine" even when we're not. We smile and tell people "it's no big deal" even when it absolutely is.

But if you’ve been injured in a crash or any other accident, being too polite can actually hurt your legal case.

Here’s why:

1. Insurance Companies Are Listening Carefully

After an accident, the insurance company will likely call you, sometimes within hours or days. They may seem friendly — but make no mistake, they’re trained to get you to say things that can be used against you.

If you say things like:

• "I’m doing okay."

• "It’s not that bad."

• "I’ll be fine soon."

...they will take your words out of context to argue that your injuries aren’t serious — even if you were just trying to be polite.

2. "Midwestern Nice" Can Minimize Your Injury

Many people raised in polite cultures feel uncomfortable talking about their pain, suffering, or struggles. They don’t want to seem like they’re complaining.

But if you downplay your injuries — to doctors, insurance adjusters, or anyone else — it can:

• Show up in your medical records ("Patient reports feeling fine.")

• Affect the settlement offer ("She said she was okay.")

• Hurt your credibility at trial ("He told the doctor he felt good.")

Honesty is crucial. If you're hurting, say so. It’s not rude — it’s protecting your health and your rights.

3. Politeness Should Never Mean Agreeing to Less Than You Deserve

Sometimes injured people are so eager to be agreeable that they accept a quick, lowball settlement offer just to “move on” and not be a bother.

Insurance companies count on this.Their first offer is almost always far less than what you actually deserve.

You have every right to:

• Take your time to fully understand your injuries.

• Get proper medical care.

• Consult with an attorney.

• Insist on full and fair compensation.

Being respectful doesn’t mean being a pushover.

4. You Can Still Be Polite — and Protect Yourself

You don’t have to be rude to protect your rights. You just have to be careful.Here’s how:

• Be polite, but don’t downplay your injuries.

• Be respectful, but don’t agree to anything without speaking to your lawyer.

• Be honest, but don’t offer extra information — answer only the question asked.

You can be the same kind, respectful person you’ve always been — while still standing up for yourself.

The Bottom Line

Midwestern manners are a wonderful thing — but when it comes to your injury claim, be careful that you aren’t accidentally giving the insurance company ammunition to use against you.

At Guenin Law Office, we help clients navigate the process with honesty, dignity, and strength.

If you’ve been injured, contact us today. We’ll help you protect your rights — without losing who you are.