Insurance adjusters have one goal – to minimize the amount of compensation paid out in personal injury claims. Serving the interests of the insurance company is their job, and the company exists to earn a profit. So, the reality is, an adjuster isn’t going to help you. Instead, they’ll be looking for ways to tip the sale in favor of their employer.
As former adjusters and attorneys for insurance companies, the legal team at William R. Rawlings & Associates understands the tricks commonly used to keep personal injury claim compensation at a minimum. Here, we share some of the everyday tactics adjusters try to limit company payouts.
Quickly Make a Low Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often contact personal injury victims right away to offer a settlement. Getting money quickly after an accident can be tempting, and adjusters know that once a settlement is accepted, victims can’t negotiate for more money.
Request a Recorded Statement
Sometimes, injuries and pain don’t manifest until days after an accident. Knowing this, insurance adjusters ask for a recorded statement early on, using the information to devalue a claim or damage the victim’s credibility.
Misrepresent the Available Coverage
The amount of compensation available in a personal injury claim is, in part, dictated by the limits of the insurance policy. However, adjusters aren’t always straightforward about the coverage and may try to trick injured victims into settling for a lesser amount.
Encourage Settlement without a Lawyer
Many insurance adjusters lead victims to believe that they have no need of an attorney or say that hiring a lawyer reduces the amount of money a victim will receive. In reality, neither is true – they’re just trying to save the company from a big payout.
Discuss Settlements for Similar Claims
Adjusters frequently declare that similar personal injury cases settled for a certain amount of money. More often than not, the amount is insignificant and certainly not a reflection of a claim’s true value.
Announce a Final Settlement Offer
Another trick insurance adjusters commonly use is to say that they have no more room to negotiate. Injured victims often don’t realize that the company can’t make an offer final and that by working with a lawyer they can explore other options.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney is the best way to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. In Utah, Idaho and California, injured victims in need of legal guidance trust the professional team at William R. Rawlings & Associates.
Don’t let yourself get tricked by an insurance adjuster – contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your personal injury claim today.
