When you’re injured and file a claim with an insurance company, you may assume the process will be fair and straightforward. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Insurance companies are businesses, and like any business, their goal is to save money. This means they often use tactics that can hurt your claim and reduce your payout. However, understanding these strategies can help you protect yourself and your rights after an accident.
1. Offering Quick Settlements
After an accident, insurers may quickly offer a settlement, hoping you’ll accept before you understand the full extent of your injuries. These early offers are often not enough to cover long-term medical expenses or lost wages.
If you accept a quick settlement, you might not be able to seek additional compensation later. It’s important to consult with a personal injury attorney before agreeing to any settlement to make sure it reflects the true value of your claim.
2. Requesting Recorded Statements
Insurance adjusters might ask for a recorded statement, claiming it’s necessary to process your claim. However, these statements can be used to find inconsistencies or admissions that might weaken your case. Some adjusters try to ask questions that may lead you to downplay your injuries or accept partial blame.
Most attorneys advise their clients to decline to provide a recorded statement without legal counsel present. This includes making any kind of statement, even on an informal phone call, as these are often recorded automatically.
3. Downplaying Your Injuries
Insurers may argue that your injuries are less severe than you’ve claimed or try to argue that the injury was a pre-existing condition. They might scrutinize your medical records to find evidence supporting their position.
To counter this, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention after an accident and follow your doctor’s treatment plan. You may want to avoid discussing your injuries in detail with the insurance company as well, especially on recorded calls.
4. Delaying the Claims Process
Some insurance companies intentionally delay processing claims, hoping that financial pressure could lead you to accept a lower settlement. They might request unnecessary documentation or repeatedly ask for the same information.
These tactics can be frustrating and financially draining, especially when you’re trying to recover from your injuries. A personal injury attorney can help expedite this process and hold the insurer accountable.
5. Shifting the Blame
Insurers may attempt to place partial or full blame on you to reduce their liability. They might argue that you were negligent or that your actions contributed to the accident.
In states with modified comparative negligence laws, like Pennsylvania, this can significantly decrease your compensation. With these laws, your claim is reduced by your share of fault, but you must be found less than 51% at fault to recover compensation. Insurance companies may fight to put an unfair amount of fault on you in attempts to reduce their payouts or eliminate them entirely.
6. Misrepresenting Policy Terms
Insurance adjusters might misinterpret or misrepresent the terms of your policy, suggesting that certain damages aren’t covered when they actually are. They may also claim that you’re not entitled to specific benefits. This is why it’s so important to have someone who understands insurance policies review your claim to see if you’re receiving all the benefits that you’re paying for.
7. Monitoring Your Activities
In some cases, insurers may monitor your social media accounts or hire private investigators to observe your daily activities. They’re looking for evidence that contradicts your injury claims.
For instance, photos of you going for walks, hanging out with friends, engaging in hobbies, and even just enjoying day-to-day life can be used to argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you’re claiming. Be cautious about what you share online and follow your doctor’s advice regarding physical activity during your recovery.
8. Discouraging Legal Representation
Insurance companies may suggest that hiring an attorney isn’t necessary, implying that legal representation will only complicate the process. They may also try to convince you that hiring a lawyer is too expensive or will take too much time.
However, claimants with legal representation often receive higher settlements. An attorney can help you build a compelling case and advocate for your best interests.
Why Should You Work With an Attorney?
Dealing with insurance companies on your own can be overwhelming. Personal injury lawyers in Easton, PA, can step in and protect your rights and help you avoid common traps.
An attorney understands the value of your claim and can fight for fair compensation. They can handle negotiations, paperwork, and deadlines, which gives you more time to focus on healing. Lawyers can gather evidence, talk to doctors, and, if needed, take your case to court.
The Bottom Line: Why Legal Help Matters
Insurance companies are not on your side, even if they seem friendly at first. Their job is to save money, not pay out fair compensation. They might delay your claim, offer a low settlement, try to blame you, or downplay your injuries to reduce what they owe.
Understanding these strategies can help you stay one step ahead. However, with legal help, you may be more likely to get the compensation you truly deserve.