How Insurance Adjusters Minimize Payouts
When you file a car accident claim, you expect the insurance company to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. However, insurance adjusters work for insurance companies, not for you. Their goal is to minimize payouts and protect company profits. Understanding their tactics can help you secure fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
This guide explains the common tactics insurance companies use, how to protect your rights, and why consulting a personal injury lawyer is essential in handling your claim.
Common Tactics Used by Insurance Adjusters
Offering a quick settlement to avoid future medical expenses
After an auto accident, an adjuster may offer a quick settlement before the full extent of your injuries is known. If you accept too soon, you may not receive compensation for future medical expenses, ongoing treatment, or permanent injuries.
How to protect yourself:
- Avoid accepting any offers before completing medical treatment.
- Consult a personal injury attorney to evaluate whether the settlement covers your future medical needs.
Requesting a recorded statement to use against you
Insurance adjusters often ask accident victims for a recorded statement or recorded or written statement under the pretense of verifying details. However, anything you say can be twisted to reduce or deny your claim.
How to protect yourself:
- Do not provide a recorded statement without legal representation.
- Politely refuse and direct them to your car accident lawyer.
Using your medical history to deny claims
Adjusters may request access to your medical records to assess your injuries, but they often look for prior injuries or pre-existing conditions to argue that the accident did not cause your current medical problems.
How to protect yourself:
- Do not sign a broad medical authorization form.
- Only provide records related to accident-related medical treatment through your personal injury attorney.
Claiming that you were partially at fault
Adjusters frequently argue that you share fault in a car accident to reduce their company’s financial liability. Louisiana follows a comparative fault system, meaning that if you are found partially responsible, your compensation can be reduced.
How to protect yourself:
- Do not admit fault at the accident scene.
- Work with an experienced attorney who can gather evidence to prove the other driver’s fault.
Delaying the claims process to pressure claimants
Insurance companies sometimes use unnecessary paperwork or slow responses to frustrate claimants, hoping they will give up or settle for less.
How to protect yourself:
- Keep detailed records of all communications with the insurance company.
- If delays persist, seek legal advice to speed up the process.
Denying liability without proper investigation
Some insurance companies deny claims outright, hoping that claimants will not fight back. They may claim a lack of evidence or dispute the severity of injuries.
How to protect yourself:
- Gather as much evidence as possible, including medical records, police reports, and eyewitness statements.
- A personal injury lawyer can challenge a denied claim and demand a fair settlement.
Downplaying the severity of injuries
Adjusters often argue that medical treatment was unnecessary or that injuries were not as severe as claimed. This tactic is used to justify offering a lower insurance payout.
How to protect yourself:
- Follow all medical recommendations and keep records of treatment and expenses.
- Obtain a medical opinion from a trusted doctor, not one recommended by the insurance company.
Why You Should Seek Legal Representation
Insurance companies use these tactics to reduce or deny claims, which is why having legal representation is critical. A personal injury lawyer can:
- Handle negotiations to secure fair compensation
- Protect you from misleading insurance company tactics
- Ensure you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and future medical costs
If you have been in a car accident and are dealing with insurance adjusters, seeking legal advice can help you navigate the claims process and receive the settlement you deserve.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you are facing challenges with an insurance company after a car accident, don’t wait to take action. Call Rozas Injury Law, LLC at (225) 343-0010 to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve.
FAQ
What should I do if an insurance adjuster asks for a recorded statement?
Politely decline and consult a car accident attorney before providing any statements.
How can I fight back if the insurance company denies my claim?
Gather evidence, including medical records, police reports, and witness statements, and consult a personal injury lawyer to challenge the denial.
What if the insurance company offers me a settlement right away?
A quick settlement is often lower than what you are entitled to. Consult a lawyer to determine if it covers all current and future expenses.
Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes, but your compensation may be reduced based on Louisiana’s comparative fault system.
How can an attorney help with my insurance claim?
An attorney can handle negotiations, ensure you receive fair compensation, and protect you from insurance company tactics.
