Common Strategies That Insurance Companies Use to Minimize the Value of Your Insurance Claim

If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation from the at-fault party's insurance company. Unfortunately, insurance companies are notorious for trying to decrease the settlement amount that they pay out to claimants. In this blog post, we'll explore the tactics that insurance companies use to decrease your settlement and what you can do to protect your rights.

Offering a Low Settlement

Insurance companies often offer a low settlement amount to claimants in the hopes that they will accept it and avoid a lengthy legal battle. However, it's important to remember that the first offer is usually not the best offer. A personal injury attorney can evaluate the offer and negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible.

Delaying the Claims Process

Another tactic that insurance companies use is to delay the claims process. They may request additional documentation or information, causing unnecessary delays and frustration for claimants. Delaying the claims process is a way for insurance companies to pressure claimants into accepting a lower settlement amount.

Disputing Liability

Insurance companies may also try to dispute liability, meaning they will try to shift the blame for the accident onto the claimant. They may argue that the claimant was partially responsible for the accident or that the accident was caused by something other than the at-fault party's negligence. Disputing liability is a way for insurance companies to decrease the settlement amount or avoid paying out a settlement altogether.

Questioning the Severity of Injuries

Insurance companies may also question the severity of your injuries, arguing that they are not as serious as you claim. They may request additional medical examinations or review your medical history in an attempt to find evidence that contradicts your claim. Questioning the severity of your injuries is a way for insurance companies to decrease the settlement amount.

Using Recorded Statements Against You

Insurance companies may request a recorded statement from you, which can later be used against you in negotiations or in court. They may ask leading questions or twist your words to make it seem like you are admitting fault or minimizing the severity of your injuries. It's important to speak with a personal injury attorney before giving a recorded statement to ensure that your rights are protected.

If you've been injured in an accident, it's important to seek the help of a qualified personal injury attorney who can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights. By understanding the tactics that insurance companies use to decrease your settlement, you can better prepare yourself for negotiations and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.

Contact William Sanders Law today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your legal options.