In a city like Visalia, California, with a growing population and increasing traffic congestion, accidents are common. This leaves many residents to deal with insurance companies for compensation for their losses.
When you file an insurance claim after an accident, you expect fair compensation for your injuries and losses. However, insurance adjusters often use tactics to reduce payouts, leaving victims with much less than they deserve.
If you are injured in an accident, consulting a Visalia personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and maximize your compensation.
Why Do Insurance Companies Lowball?
Insurance companies are businesses that prioritize profits. One way they increase earnings is by minimizing the amount they pay in claims. Adjusters are trained to negotiate the lowest possible settlement, hoping that victims will accept a quick offer without realizing they are entitled to more.
According to the Insurance Research Council (IRC), accident victims who hire attorneys receive settlements that are on average 3.5 times higher than those who negotiate alone. This statistic reveals why insurance companies often discourage victims from seeking legal help—they know an attorney can secure a fairer settlement.
Common Insurance Lowballing Tactics
Quick Settlement Offers
After an accident, an insurance adjuster may offer a fast settlement. While it might seem like a good option, these offers are usually much lower than what victims need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing treatment. Adjusters rely on victims accepting these offers before realizing the full extent of their injuries.
Downplaying the Severity of Injuries
Insurance companies often argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim. They may question medical records, suggest that you had pre-existing conditions, or push you to see a doctor of their choosing. Their goal is to reduce the amount they must pay for medical expenses.
Delaying the Claims Process
Another common tactic is delaying the claim process. Adjusters may take longer than necessary to respond, process paperwork, or approve treatments. They hope that financial stress will pressure victims into accepting a lower settlement. If you notice unnecessary delays, keeping records of all communications can help protect your claim.
Denying Liability
Adjusters may try to shift the blame for the accident onto you to reduce their payout. They might claim that you were partially responsible or that there is not enough evidence to prove their policyholder was at fault. Collecting witness statements, police reports, and photos from the accident scene can help counter this tactic.
Misrepresenting Policy Terms
Some insurance companies misinterpret policy terms to justify denying or reducing a claim. They might tell victims that certain damages or treatments are not covered when, in reality, they are. Reviewing your policy carefully and asking for written explanations can help prevent this deception.
Requesting Recorded Statements
Adjusters often ask victims to provide recorded statements about the accident. They may frame questions in a way that leads victims to downplay their injuries or admit partial fault. Even saying something as simple as “I feel fine” can be used against you. You are not required to provide a recorded statement without legal representation.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Insurance adjusters are skilled negotiators trained to protect their company’s bottom line. By understanding their common lowballing tactics, you can protect yourself from unfair settlement offers. If you suspect that your claim is being undervalued or delayed, seeking legal assistance can make a significant difference. A personal injury lawyer can assess your case, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
