After an automobile accident, one of the first people who may contact you is an insurance adjuster. Most adjusters are professional and courteous, and many genuinely try to resolve claims fairly. However, it is important to remember that the adjuster's job is to protect the insurance company's financial interests.
Understanding common claim-handling tactics can help you make informed decisions and avoid mistakes that may reduce the value of your claim.
Tactic #1: Calling You Quickly After the Accident
It is common for an insurance adjuster to contact you within hours or days of the collision.
At first, this may seem helpful. However, shortly after an accident, you may not yet know:
The full extent of your injuries
Whether you will require additional treatment
Whether you will miss work
Whether permanent injuries exist
Before discussing settlement, make sure you understand the nature and extent of your injuries and damages.
Tactic #2: Asking for a Recorded Statement
An adjuster may ask to record your statement. Many accident victims assume this is required. In reality, statements given shortly after an accident can be incomplete or inaccurate because symptoms may not yet have developed. Something as simple as saying "I'm fine" can later be used to question the seriousness of your injuries. Think carefully before providing a recorded statement and be sure any information you provide is accurate and complete.
Tactic #3: Minimizing Your Injuries
Some adjusters may suggest that:
You were not hurt badly
Your treatment was unnecessary
Your injuries should have healed more quickly
Your symptoms are unrelated to the accident
This often occurs when injuries are not visible, such as:
Neck injuries
Back injuries
Soft tissue injuries
Concussions
Psychological injuries
Follow medical advice, attend appointments, and ensure your symptoms are fully documented by your healthcare providers.
Tactic #4: Making a Quick Settlement Offer
A quick settlement offer may seem attractive, especially when medical bills and lost wages are creating financial pressure.
However, once a release is signed, you generally cannot return later and request additional compensation if your condition worsens.
Do not settle your injury claim until you understand:
Your diagnosis
Future treatment needs
Permanent impairments
Total economic losses
Tactic #5: Shifting Blame to You
Even when fault appears clear, an insurance company may argue that you were partially or entirely responsible for the collision.
Examples may include claims that:
You were distracted
You were speeding
You failed to keep a proper lookout
You could have avoided the collision
Preserve photographs, witness information, police reports, and any other evidence that may help establish how the collision occurred.
Tactic #6: Questioning Medical Treatment
Insurance companies often review medical records carefully.
An adjuster may argue that:
Treatment lasted too long
Certain procedures were unnecessary
There were gaps in treatment
The injuries were pre-existing
Follow your doctor's recommendations and keep complete records of all treatment, prescriptions, diagnostic testing, and medical expenses.
Tactic #7: Delaying the Claim
Sometimes the most effective tactic is simply delay.
When claims take months to resolve, accident victims may experience:
Financial pressure
Medical bills
Lost income
Vehicle replacement expenses
The longer the process takes, the more likely some individuals become willing to accept less than they otherwise would.
Keep organized records, respond promptly to reasonable requests, and maintain copies of all communications related to your claim.
Bonus Tip:
Remember Who the Adjuster Represents
Many adjusters are polite, professional, and respectful. However, it is important to remember that the adjuster works for the insurance company—not for you. The adjuster's responsibility is to evaluate claims on behalf of the insurer and to protect the insurer's interests. Your responsibility is to protect your own interests.
What You Should Do After an Accident:
Obtain prompt medical attention.
Follow all medical advice.
Keep copies of medical records and bills.
Photograph injuries and vehicle damage.
Maintain a journal documenting your recovery.
Preserve all insurance correspondence.
Understand your rights before accepting any settlement.
Final Thoughts
Most accident victims have little experience dealing with insurance claims. Insurance companies, on the other hand, handle thousands of claims every year. Knowledge is one of the most important tools available to an injured person. By understanding common insurance claim tactics, you can make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and place yourself in the best position to achieve a fair resolution of your claim.
Remember: The insurance company has professionals looking after its interests. Make sure someone is looking after yours.