Personal injury cases are a common occurrence in today’s society, with individuals seeking compensation for injuries sustained due to the negligence of others. However, obtaining fair compensation can be a challenging task, especially when dealing with insurance adjusters who are trained to minimize claims using various tactics.
It is highly recommended that individuals involved in personal injury cases seek the assistance of experienced attorneys. By doing so, they can protect their rights and ensure they receive fair compensation for their injuries by being aware of the strategies employed by insurance adjusters.
Here are some of the most common tactics used by insurance adjusters:
Misleading or Manipulative Statements: Insurance adjusters may use misleading or manipulative tactics to pressure claimants into accepting low settlement offers. They may downplay the severity of injuries or medical costs to convince claimants to settle for less than they deserve.
Delaying Tactics: Adjusters may prolong the claims process by requesting unnecessary examinations, medical records, or documents. Delaying tactics can put financial strain on claimants, leading them to accept lower settlements out of desperation.
Low Initial Offer: Insurance adjusters often make low settlement offers at the beginning of the claims process, a strategy known as “lowballing.” This tactic aims to convince claimants to accept less than the true value of their injuries, as many individuals may not fully understand the extent of their injuries or the long-term costs of treatment.
Disputing Liability: Adjusters may dispute liability by arguing that the claimant was partially or completely at fault for the accident. This tactic aims to reduce the compensation owed by the insurance company by shifting blame onto the claimant.
Questioning the Seriousness of Injuries: Insurance adjusters may question the severity of injuries by challenging medical reports or treatment plans. They may argue that injuries are not as serious as claimed, leading to lower settlements that do not cover the full cost of care.
Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring: Adjusters may use private investigators to monitor claimants’ activities and social media accounts for evidence to refute injury claims. This information can be used to undermine the credibility of the claimant’s injuries and reduce settlement amounts.
Pressuring Claimants to Provide Written Statements: Adjusters may pressure claimants to provide written or recorded statements that can be used against them in negotiations. These statements can be manipulated to contradict the claimant’s original account, leading to reduced settlements or claim denials.
Discouraging Hiring a Lawyer: Insurance adjusters may discourage claimants from hiring legal counsel by implying that it is unnecessary or will cause delays. However, having a lawyer on your side is essential for navigating the complexities of a personal injury case and ensuring fair compensation.
In conclusion, it is crucial for individuals involved in personal injury cases to be aware of the tactics used by insurance adjusters and seek the assistance of experienced attorneys to protect their rights and secure fair compensation. By understanding these strategies and having legal representation, claimants can increase their chances of receiving a just settlement for their injuries.