When you file a claim with an insurance company, you are put in touch with an insurance adjuster. It is important that you remember that these people work for the insurance company, not you. His/her job is to settle your claim as quickly and as cheaply as possible. The adjuster may seem friendly and professional, but they are only there to evaluate your claim for the lowest amount possible. How do they do this? Licensed adjusters employ a vast array of tricks in order to get you to settle for less than you deserve. So, let’s take a look at some of these tactics insurance adjusters to use so you’ll be prepared if you find yourself in this situation.
Stage 1: War of Attrition.
Like most people, you probably have a lot of questions regarding your claim. When will my car be repaired? Should I visit my doctor? What are the next steps? Adjusters have large workloads, so it can be difficult to get someone on the phone who will be able to answer your questions. However, sometimes letting the phone ring can be part of their plan to get you to settle. When weeks go by without hearing anything, you are going to be frustrated. It’s normal to feel this way. But don’t let that get to you. That’s exactly what your adjuster wants. They want you to be so frustrated that you give up and are willing to do anything just to get this mess behind you.
Don’t fall for their tricks. Especially if your claim has been going on for an extended period of time. They could be just trying to wait out the statute of limitations so they do not have to worry about you filing a lawsuit. That is why we recommend getting a lawyer involved as soon as possible.
Stage 2: The Blame Game.
Another trick the insurance companies use is your own medical history. However, they must get your permission to get your medical records. Remember to read everything before you sign that dotted line! They could try to get medical information from years ago that has nothing to do with your current case. This is an attempt to blame someone else for the pain and suffering their insurer caused. If you are unsure about what you’re signing, call a lawyer. Personal injury lawyers know these tricks and can help you make your case stronger.
Stage 3: Surveillance.
If the insurance adjusters can prove that your injuries are not as bad as you claimed, they will give you a smaller settlement amount. Even doing something simple like bending over to pick something up in front of your house can be framed against you. These people are good at what they d,o so be extra careful about what you do in public. This also extends to your social media. If you’re uploading a status or a video of you doing something that would hurt your claim, you can bet the adjuster is going to use that against you.
Get Help From an Experienced Injury Attorney
We know not everyone is an expert in insurance company practices. That’s why we recommend you get an attorney involved as soon as possible. Don’t face the insurance adjusters alone! Personal injury lawyers know all these tricks and can help you work around them to get the money you deserve. Contact our team at Villarreal & Begum Law Firm to discuss your case in a free consultation.
The Villarreal & Begum, LAW GUNS dedicates their time and effort towards helping people in Texas find justice for personal negligence encountered while living their normal, everyday lives.