5 Lies an Insurance Adjuster Will Tell You
Insurance adjusters work for the company, not for you. Their job focuses on minimizing payouts, often at your expense. When you file a claim, you anticipate fair treatment, but adjusters use misleading tactics to protect the company’s bottom line. Their friendly tone masks a strategic effort to devalue your case.
Let’s talk about Chicago. With over 2.6 million residents, Chicago is a finance, technology, and transportation hub. Its bustling streets, world-class architecture, and deep-dish pizza attract visitors, while its legal industry remains a critical resource for injury victims.
Chicago has devoted injury lawyers, such as the personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, who are ready to fight against insurance adjusters’ deceptive tactics to secure rightful compensation for those harmed in accidents.
This post exposes five common lies adjusters tell, helping you recognize and counter them.
1. “You Don’t Need a Lawyer”
Adjusters want you to believe legal help won’t make a difference. They discourage attorney involvement because they know a lawyer strengthens your case. They control the conversation without representation, making reducing your settlement easier. Legal professionals know insurance tactics and fight for the full amount you deserve. A lawyer also prevents you from making costly mistakes that weaken your claim.
2. “This Is the Best Offer You’ll Get”
Adjusters often present a low settlement and claim it’s the highest amount possible. They pressure you into accepting quickly, hoping you won’t question the number. In reality, initial offers rarely reflect the actual value of a claim. Those who challenge these lowball amounts receive significantly higher payouts. Accepting too soon leaves you without options if unexpected medical costs arise later.
3. “You Must Give a Recorded Statement”
Many adjusters insist on a recorded statement, claiming that processing your claim is necessary. This tactic aims to trap you into saying something that weakens your case. Your words might get twisted or used out of context. You have no obligation to provide a recorded statement, and declining one protects your interests. Anything you say may be manipulated to justify a lower payout.
4. “Your Injuries Aren’t That Serious”
Insurance companies downplay injuries to justify lower payouts. They question medical reports, suggest pre-existing conditions, or claim symptoms don’t match the accident details. Even if pain worsens over time, they push to settle before the full extent of injuries becomes clear.
Seeking proper medical evaluation and keeping records prevents them from dismissing your condition. Accepting their claim without medical proof risks your health and financial recovery.
5. “Delaying Your Claim Won’t Hurt Your Case”
Adjusters sometimes stall, hoping you lose patience or give up. They delay responses, ask for unnecessary documents, or claim they need more time for review. These tactics work against you, as waiting too long risks missing deadlines or weakening your bargaining position. Pushing for timely action ensures that you remain in control. The longer they delay, the harder it becomes to gather crucial evidence for your case.
Finally, insurance adjusters prioritize company profits over fair compensation. Their deceptive tactics aim to reduce what you receive. Knowing their strategies allows you to push back and demand what you truly deserve. Recognizing these five lies empowers you to protect your rights and secure a just outcome. Staying informed and prepared strengthens your ability to fight against unfair practices.