If you’re involved in a personal injury case in Los Angeles, you’re likely dealing with an insurance company.
While insurers claim to act in your best interests, their priority is minimizing payouts.
This means they’ll use a range of tactics to reduce compensation, even when you’re entitled to more.
Here’s a look at common insurance company strategies and how you can protect yourself.
1. Quick Settlement Offers
One of the most common tactics is to provide a quick settlement offer soon after the accident. These offers often come before the full extent of injuries is known. The insurance company may pressure you to accept this initial offer, promising a quick resolution. However, this amount is usually far less than what you need or deserve.
What to Do:
Don’t accept the first offer without consulting an attorney. Your lawyer will assess the offer in light of your injuries and losses, ensuring that you receive fair compensation.
2. Recorded Statements
Insurance adjusters often request recorded statements from victims, claiming it’s necessary for processing the claim. However, they’re trained to ask leading questions designed to minimize the insurance company’s liability. They may also twist your words to suggest that you admitted fault or exaggerated your injuries.
What to Do:
Politely decline to give a recorded statement until you’ve consulted your attorney. You can provide necessary information without risking a misstatement.
3. Disputing Liability
Another tactic involves disputing or downplaying liability. Insurers may claim you were partly at fault for the accident or that your injuries weren’t directly related. California follows a comparative fault system, which means your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially responsible.
What to Do:
Work with your attorney to gather evidence that establishes the other party’s liability, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records. This will help counter any claims of partial fault.
4. Delaying the Process
Insurance companies are known to delay settlements, hoping you’ll become frustrated or desperate enough to accept a lower offer. This can be particularly challenging if you’re struggling with medical bills and lost wages.
What to Do:
Don’t let frustration lead you to settle for less. An experienced attorney can keep your case moving forward and hold the insurer accountable for unreasonable delays.
5. Requesting Unnecessary Medical Examinations
Insurers sometimes request independent medical examinations (IMEs) to assess your injuries. However, these “independent” doctors are often hired by insurance companies and may downplay your injuries to minimize payouts.
What to Do:
Your attorney can help ensure the examination is fair and arrange for your own independent assessment to counter any biased findings.
6. Arguing Pre-existing Conditions
Insurance companies may argue that your injuries were pre-existing or unrelated to the accident to reduce the settlement amount.
What to Do:
Provide detailed medical records to show how the accident aggravated a pre-existing condition or caused new injuries. Your attorney can guide you on how to document the impact of the accident accurately.
7. Surveillance
In some cases, insurers may conduct surveillance to find evidence that contradicts your injury claims. They may hire private investigators to monitor your daily activities or check your social media profiles.
What to Do:
Be mindful of what you post online and follow your doctor’s recommendations. If you’re being observed, avoid actions that might be misinterpreted.
8. Underestimating Long-Term Impact
Insurance adjusters may downplay the long-term impact of your injuries, such as ongoing medical expenses or the inability to return to work.
What to Do:
Work with your attorney and medical professionals to provide comprehensive assessments of future costs. Document any lost wages and future earning potential.
Conclusion
Dealing with insurance companies after an accident can be overwhelming. They’re experienced in using tactics to reduce their liability, but you don’t have to face them alone.
Consulting a personal injury attorney ensures you have an advocate fighting for your best interests and that you’re not pressured into an unfair settlement.
If you’ve been injured in Los Angeles, reach out to our team for a free consultation at 818-784-8544.
We’re here to help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve.