How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Injury Claims
After an accident, many injured people expect the insurance company to fairly evaluate their claim and provide compensation for their losses. In reality, insurance adjusters work to protect the company’s financial interests. Understanding common insurance tactics can help you avoid mistakes that could reduce the value of your case.
At Parham Smith & Archenhold, LLC, our personal injury lawyers in Greenville work tirelessly with clients to protect their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve after another person’s negligence causes harm.
Common Tactics Insurance Companies Use to Reduce Claims
After an accident, you and your attorney can work together to submit a claim to the insurance companies involved. They will then investigate the claim to determine liability and damages.
During that process, they may look for reasons to pay less than the full value of a claim, despite what is fair to you. While every case is different, some common strategies these companies use can include:
Offering a Quick Settlement Before You Know the Full Extent of Your Injuries
Insurance companies often try to settle claims as quickly as possible after an accident. While a fast settlement may seem appealing, accepting an offer too soon can leave you without enough compensation if your injuries turn out to be more serious than you first realized.
Some injuries, such as soft tissue damage, traumatic brain injuries, or chronic pain, may take weeks or months to fully develop. Once you accept a settlement, you usually cannot return later and ask for more money if your medical condition worsens. Before agreeing to any settlement, it is important to understand the full extent of your injuries and future medical needs.
Questioning Your Medical Treatment
Insurance companies often use computer programs to evaluate claims. These programs may question whether certain treatments, tests, or procedures were necessary.
If the insurer argues that your medical care was unnecessary or that your injuries existed before the accident occurred, they may refuse to pay for those expenses. Supporting your claim with complete medical records and documentation can help show that your treatment was appropriate.
Delaying the Claims Process to Pressure You Into Settling
Another common insurance company tactic is intentionally slowing down the claims process. They may take a long time to respond to calls, repeatedly ask for additional documents, or delay making a settlement offer.
These delays can place financial pressure on injured victims. The insurance company may hope that your financial situation will force you to accept a lower settlement simply to receive money sooner. An experienced attorney from Parham Smith & Archenhold, LLC, can help keep your claim moving forward and work to prevent unnecessary delays.
Seek Legal Counsel From Experienced Greenville Personal Injury Attorneys
The team at Parham Smith & Archenhold, LLC, is committed to advocating for injured people who have been hurt due to the actions of another party. Contact our personal injury lawyers in Greenville today online or by calling 864-242-9008. We’re honored to serve communities across South Carolina and are ready to discuss your unique situation during a free case assessment.