After an accident, dealing with an insurance adjuster might seem like a straightforward process. They come across as helpful, offering to guide you through your claim.
But behind that friendly demeanor, their job is to protect the insurance company’s bottom line.
Insurance adjusters have strategies designed to reduce or deny your claim. If you don’t understand their tactics, you may accept a settlement far below what you deserve.
That’s where the need for a personal injury lawyer comes in—to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
Let’s uncover the truths insurance adjusters don’t want you to know.
The First Offer Is Almost Always Too Low
Adjusters know that accident victims often need quick cash to cover medical bills and lost wages. They use this to their advantage by offering settlements that are much lower than what your claim is truly worth. Many victims accept these lowball offers, unaware that they can negotiate for more.
Why?
- They assume you don’t know the true value of your claim.
- They hope you’ll take the money and close the case quickly.
- They want to avoid a costly lawsuit.
Never accept the first offer without consulting a lawyer who can determine whether it’s fair.
Your Words Can Be Used Against You
After a claim is filed, adjusters often ask for recorded statements. They might say it’s just a formality, but in reality, they’re looking for inconsistencies or anything they can use to devalue your claim.
How They Use Your Words:
- They may twist what you say to downplay your injuries.
- Any admission of partial fault can reduce your payout.
- Even saying “I’m feeling better” can be used to argue that your injuries aren’t severe.
Always consult an attorney before making any recorded statements to an insurance adjuster.
They May Delay Your Claim on Purpose
One common tactic is to drag out the claims process, hoping you’ll get frustrated and accept a lower settlement. The longer they delay, the more financial strain you experience, increasing the likelihood that you’ll settle for less.
Common Delay Tactics:
- Asking for excessive documentation
- Repeatedly requesting the same information
- Ignoring emails or calls
Having a lawyer on your side puts pressure on the insurance company to act in good faith and speed up the process.
They Might Deny Your Claim Without a Valid Reason
Adjusters often deny claims outright, hoping victims won’t challenge the decision. Many people accept a denial without knowing they have the right to fight back.
Reasons They May Deny a Claim:
- Arguing your injuries were pre-existing
- Claiming there is insufficient evidence
- Saying you were partially at fault
A lawyer can challenge unfair denials and gather the necessary evidence to support your claim.
They Hope You Won’t Hire an Attorney
The last thing insurance companies want is for you to hire an attorney.
Why?
Because an experienced lawyer knows their tricks and will fight for every dollar you’re owed. Studies have shown that accident victims who hire lawyers receive significantly higher settlements than those who don’t.
How an Attorney Helps:
- Negotiates aggressively for a fair settlement
- Handles all communications to prevent adjusters from taking advantage of you
- Files a lawsuit if necessary to secure the compensation you deserve
If you’re dealing with an insurance adjuster, don’t go through it alone. An attorney can ensure you get treated fairly.
Final Thoughts
Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company—not for you. Their goal is to save money, and they use various tactics to reduce payouts. Knowing their strategies and having legal representation can make all the difference in securing fair compensation.
If you’ve been injured and an insurance company is handling your claim, don’t let them dictate the outcome. Consult a personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and fight for the settlement you truly deserve.
