What Tactics Do Car Insurance Companies Use to Devalue Valid Claims?

Why can’t it be simple enough for you to just get the compensation you are entitled to?

That’s a question injury and property damage victims have asked themselves for decades when it comes to dealing with insurance companies. Unfortunately, insurance carriers are almost always for-profit, meaning they will do anything they can to limit how much money they pay out, even if there is a clear claim of negligence against another driver.

Here, we want to review some of the most common tactics insurance companies use to devalue claims. We encourage you to learn about these tactics so you can spot them if your insurance claims adjuster tries to use them for your claim. In fact, if you have any doubts about moving forward with your claim against an aggressive insurance carrier, we encourage you to reach out to a car accident lawyer with experience standing up to these companies.

Delaying the Claims Process

One common tactic used by insurance companies is delaying the claims process. They may request unnecessary documentation, repeatedly ask for the same information, or take an unusually long time to review your claim. This tactic is designed to frustrate you into accepting a lower settlement or abandoning your claim altogether.

Rebuttal: An experienced attorney can expedite the process by managing all communications and documentation on your behalf. They will ensure that your claim is processed in a timely manner and will push back against any unnecessary delays by the insurance company.

Offering a Quick, Low Settlement

Insurance adjusters often offer a quick, low settlement soon after an accident. They hope that you will accept this offer without fully understanding the extent of your injuries and the long-term impact on your life.

Rebuttal: A car accident lawyer can evaluate your case to determine the full value of your claim, including future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They can negotiate with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement that covers all your losses.

Disputing the Severity of Injuries

Insurance companies may attempt to downplay the severity of your injuries, claiming that they are not as serious as you report. They might argue that your injuries were pre-existing or not related to the accident.

Rebuttal: Your attorney can gather and present compelling medical evidence to prove the extent and cause of your injuries. They can work with medical experts to provide testimony and documentation that supports your claim.

Using Recorded Statements Against You

Insurance adjusters might ask you to provide a recorded statement about the accident. They can then use any inconsistencies or poorly phrased statements against you to devalue your claim.

Rebuttal: An attorney can advise you on how to handle communications with the insurance company. They will ensure that you do not provide any recorded statements that could be misconstrued and used against you. Your lawyer can handle all interactions to protect your interests.

Blaming You for the Accident

Another tactic is to shift some or all of the blame onto you. By arguing that you were partially at fault for the accident, the insurance company can reduce the amount they have to pay out.

Rebuttal: An experienced car accident lawyer can investigate the accident thoroughly to gather evidence proving the other party’s negligence. They can counteract the insurance company’s attempts to shift blame and work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Denying the Claim Entirely

In some cases, insurance companies might deny your claim altogether, stating that their policyholder was not at fault or that your injuries are not covered under the policy.

Rebuttal: A skilled attorney can appeal the denial and provide additional evidence to support your claim. They can represent you in negotiations or take your case to court if necessary to fight for your right to compensation.

Misinterpreting Policy Language

Insurance companies might misinterpret or selectively interpret policy language to justify a lower payout or denial of your claim. They may argue that certain damages are not covered under your policy.

Rebuttal: Your attorney can review the policy and identify any misinterpretations or loopholes used by the insurance company. They can argue the correct interpretation of the policy terms to ensure you receive the full benefits you are entitled to.