Common Tactics Insurers Use to Devalue Your Car Accident Claim

After getting injured in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation. Many people think this is a straightforward process of submitting a claim and getting paid. Well, this is hardly the case.

Insurance companies are notorious for undervaluing your claim. This means they will use tactics to reduce the amount they have to pay you. This is why it is important to get legal support for a car accident. Understanding these common strategies can help you spot the mishaps and stay one step ahead. These tactics include:

1. Delaying the Claims Process

Insurers may “drag their feet” by taking too long to return calls or emails. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you are facing medical bills and other repair costs.

The goal is to wear you down until you are so desperate that you end up accepting a lower settlement to get it over with. If this happens, you must stay persistent and consider talking to an attorney if the delays go on too long.

2. Downplaying Your Injuries

Insurance adjusters often try to minimize how badly you were hurt. They argue that your injuries are not as serious as you claim or that you didn’t need as much treatment as you received.

If there was any delay between the accident and your first doctor visit, they might say your injuries are not related to the crash. That is why it is important to get medical attention right away after an accident and keep records of every visit, test, and treatment received.

3. Shifting Blame

This is when the insurance company blames you for the accident or at least part of it. For example, they might say you were driving too fast or not paying enough attention. Even if you are found partially at fault, it can still reduce the amount of money you receive.

In states that use pure comparative negligence, the compensation you are entitled to is reduced by the percentage of fault. For example, if your damages are estimated to be $80,000 and you are found to be 10% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by $8,000, leaving you with $72,000.

For states that use modified comparative negligence, you risk losing your entire compensation if you are 50% or 51% at fault. In states that use contributory negligence, you won’t get a single penny if you are determined to be even 1% to blame. Therefore, be careful about what you say after the accident and never admit fault without all the facts.

4. Asking for Recorded Statements of Full Medical Records

Soon after an accident, an adjuster may ask you to give a recorded statement or sign a medical release. This might seem harmless, but it is often a trap. They can use your own words against you or later look through your medical history to find unrelated issues. If you had any pre-existing conditions or illnesses, they may try to attribute the severity of your injuries to that. Speak to a lawyer before giving a statement or signing anything.

5. Offering a Quick, Low Settlement

Insurers may offer you a settlement immediately after the accident, hoping that you will take it without thinking. These quick offers might sound appealing at first, but they are typically less than what you need and deserve. Once you accept the offer, the deal is done and sealed. Therefore, take your time and don’t agree to anything until you know the extent of your damages.

Conclusion

Apart from the aforementioned tactics, insurers may dispute the value of your damages, argue a lack of enough damages, or convince you not to hire an attorney. Therefore, always be cautious of what you say and sign. Don’t hesitate to hire an attorney to protect your interests and rights.