Originally Published: July 20, 2023 • Updated: September 25, 2026
Have you been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence? Insurance companies may say they’re on your side, but their priority is protecting their bottom line — not you. Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and they use a variety of tactics to limit their payout on claims. Understanding how they operate can help you protect your rights, obtain a fair settlement, and avoid being taken advantage of.
They act friendly — but they’re not on your side
Insurance adjusters are skilled negotiators (and employees of the insurance company). They sound helpful, polite, and supportive, but their job is to settle your claim for as little as possible; they are working against you and are not on your side. They may even mislead you or twist your words to weaken your case.
Best advice: Avoid phone conversations with adjusters. Anything you say can be used against you.
They don’t want you to hire a lawyer
Insurance companies know that an experienced personal injury attorney will understand the true value of your case — and fight for it. They prefer dealing with unrepresented individuals because it’s easier to pressure them into accepting low offers. They have a lawyer to look out for their best interests; you deserve the same protection.
Hiring a reputable attorney early protects your rights and strengthens your claim.
They push hard for recorded statements
Adjusters often try to get a recorded statement, especially when you are still shaken or vulnerable. They ask questions designed to trip you up or get you to say something that harms your claim.
Important: You are not required to give a recorded statement. Never agree to be recorded by insurance adjusters or anyone else.
You have the right to decline conversations with the adjuster. Your lawyer can submit a written statement (vs a verbal conversation) reducing your risk, once again, of having your own words used against you. The insurance company may tell you otherwise, but you have the right to hire a personal injury lawyer who can handle communications with the insurance company.
They try to access your entire medical history
Your medical records are critical evidence in your case. Adjusters may send medical authorization forms that allow them to dig through your past health records. They do this to find pre‑existing conditions they can blame your injuries on.
Your lawyer will ensure the insurance company only receives records relevant to your accident.
Important: Do not speak with an adjuster before getting medical care. Do not sign any medical authorization release forms sent to you by the other person’s insurance. Never authorize the release of your medical records to anyone without first consulting your lawyer.
They pressure you into quick, lowball settlements
Words like “final offer” or “best offer” are scare tactics. Once you accept a settlement and sign a release, you cannot reopen your case — even if your injuries worsen. Ensuring a ‘quick’ settlement is one way the insurance company can take advantage of you. They pressure you into signing a settlement offer, which is often a lowball offer.
Never accept the first offer. Quick settlements benefit the insurance company, not you.
Time is of the essence.
Witnesses need to be contacted, physical evidence gathered, and medical appointments completed. The longer you wait, the less likely the evidence will be there when you need it. Same with witnesses: the longer it takes to get their statement, the less likely they will recall details.
‘Bad Faith.’
One thing for you to know: insurance companies are not free from oversight. They can get into trouble if they act in ‘bad faith.’ There is a law in every state that requires insurance companies to act in good faith when dealing with their insureds. Basically, that means the insurance company must act in the best interest of their policyholders, not themselves. Unfortunately, many push the boundaries on this.
‘A picture is worth a thousand words.’
Taking photographs (or video) as soon after you have suffered your injuries can be a very useful tool in persuading insurance companies (and juries) that your injuries were serious.
Photos, videos, and written notes can be powerful evidence.
The more evidence you preserve, the harder it is for the insurance company to minimize your payout.
Final Message: Don’t Let the Insurance Company Take Advantage of You
Insurance companies are for‑profit businesses. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible — and they use many strategies to achieve that. Protect yourself by understanding their tactics and getting experienced legal help early.
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident in which you suffered serious injuries due to another’s negligence, having an attorney who is your advocate can offer you peace of mind during your recovery.
Call Nash & Franciskato at (877) 284-6600. We have a successful track record of helping accident victims collect the compensation they deserve. One of our experienced staff will speak with you personally and will provide you with a free, no-obligation review of your case.
START YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION TODAY
Past results afford no guarantee of future results, and each case is different and is judged on its own merits. The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements
Photo Credits
