Insurance adjusters are tasked with investigating claims and determining fair payouts, but let’s face it—not all adjusters have your best interests in mind. Their ultimate goal? To save their insurance company money, even if it means giving you less than you deserve.
If you’ve recently been in an accident or are navigating the claims process, understanding the tactics adjusters might use can help you protect your rights and maximize your settlement. This guide will walk you through common adjuster strategies, how to respond effectively, and real-life examples to illustrate these techniques in action.
Common Insurance Adjuster Tactics
Not every insurance adjuster intends to undercut you, but knowing some of the most widely used tactics can help you be prepared. Let’s explore a few strategies you might encounter.
1. Dragging Out the Process
One of the most frustrating tactics is delaying the claims process. Adjusters know you’re facing mounting medical bills and other expenses, so they purposefully stall in hopes you’ll grow impatient and accept a lower settlement.
Red Flags:
- Constant “We’re still reviewing your case” updates.
- Requests for irrelevant or excessive documentation.
- Calls and emails going unanswered for weeks.
Why They Do This: They aim to frustrate you into settling for less just to have closure.
2. Minimizing Your Injuries
Another ploy adjusters use is downplaying the severity of your injuries. They may question your medical reports or even suggest that some injuries are unrelated to the accident.
Common Statements:
- “Your back pain could be from an old injury.”
- “Are you sure you needed that many physical therapy sessions?”
- “The accident didn’t seem severe enough to cause these problems.”
Why They Do This: Reducing the scope of your injuries means reducing the dollar amount of your compensation.
3. Offering a Lowball Settlement
You might receive what seems like a quick and generous check shortly after your claim is filed. But proceed with caution! Lowball settlements are rarely enough to cover the actual cost of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
The Catch: They will ask you to sign a release, preventing you from pursuing additional compensation if future medical expenses arise.
Triggered by:
- Lack of documentation on your part.
- Their assumption that you’re unaware of your claim’s true value.
4. Implying You Don’t Need a Lawyer
Some adjusters will discourage you from seeking legal counsel. They might say, “Hiring an attorney will just slow things down,” or imply that legal fees will eat into your settlement.
Why They Say This: Adjusters typically know that once a lawyer is involved, you can negotiate more confidently and often command a higher settlement.
5. Twisting Your Words
Adjusters may seem friendly and sympathetic, encouraging you to chat casually about the accident. Don’t be fooled! They are often fishing for statements they can twist to minimize your claim.
Common Techniques:
- Asking you to speculate about fault (“Do you think you could’ve avoided the accident?”).
- Overemphasizing small talk to catch you saying, “I’m feeling better.”
- Recording your conversations without explicitly informing you.
Protecting Yourself Against Adjuster Tactics
Knowledge is power, and when dealing with insurance adjusters, preparation is your greatest ally. Here’s how you can level the playing field.
1. Document Everything
Documentation is essential when filing a claim. Keep detailed records, including:
- Photos of the accident scene, damages, and injuries.
- Medical appointments and treatments.
- Receipts for vehicle repairs and other expenses.
Consistent and well-organized documentation leaves adjusters with little room to question your claim.
2. Seek a Thorough Medical Evaluation
Even if your injuries seem minor at first, visit a medical professional immediately. Some injuries take days or weeks to manifest symptoms, and early diagnosis is key for both recovery and building your case.
Pro Tip: Follow your doctor’s recommended treatment plan precisely; skipping appointments could hurt your case.
3. Limit Communication With Adjusters
Keep discussions with adjusters short and to the point. Never speculate or make assumptions, and avoid making recorded statements without consulting a legal professional first.
Instead, say: “I need to review this with my attorney” or “I’ll provide additional information in writing.”
4. Consult Legal Counsel
Don’t hesitate to seek legal representation if your case grows complicated. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you negotiate from a position of strength, handle tricky communications, and ensure you understand your claim’s full value.
Reminder: Many attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency, meaning they only get paid when you do.
Real-Life Case Studies
1. Delayed Settlement Backfires on Insurance Company
Case: A car accident victim filed a claim after being struck by an uninsured driver. The insurance adjuster delayed their payout for months, repeatedly requesting “more documentation.”
Outcome: The victim hired an attorney, who discovered the adjuster didn’t actually need additional paperwork. The case was promptly settled, and the victim received compensation well above the initial offer.
2. Lowball Offer Refused
Case: A small business owner hurt in a slip-and-fall accident received a $5,000 settlement offer. The adjuster claimed medical expenses were “overestimated.”
Response: Upon consulting with a lawyer and compiling detailed medical reports, the business owner eventually settled for $25,000.
3. Misquoted Statement Leads to Appeal
Case: After a minor car accident, a claimant told the adjuster, “I’m feeling better.” The adjuster used this statement to argue that the injuries were not severe.
Outcome: The claimant provided extensive medical documentation and clarified their actual condition. With legal help, they won the case.
These cases highlight the importance of being vigilant and seeking proper support when dealing with insurance adjusters.
Stay in Control of Your Claim
Insurance adjusters play an instrumental role in the claims process, but they don’t hold all the power. By staying informed, gathering evidence, and seeking professional advice, you can counter their tactics and secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Above all, don’t rush into signing any settlements or agreeing to statements under pressure. Protect your rights and approach every step with diligence.
Got questions or looking for expert guidance? A personal injury lawyer can help you confidently handle your claim and avoid common pitfalls. Don’t take chances when it comes to your compensation.
