Games Insurance Adjusters Play

Insurance adjusters are often seen as the gatekeepers to compensation for policyholders. While they are supposed to be looking out for the interests of their clients, there are unfortunately times when they engage in games and tactics to minimize the amount of compensation paid out. Here are some of the games insurance adjusters play and how you can navigate around them:

Game #1: Delay Tactics

One tactic that insurance adjusters use is delay tactics. They hope that the policyholder will become impatient and accept a lower settlement offer just to get the process over with. Adjusters may drag their feet on investigating the claim, or they may ask for unnecessary documentation, hoping that policyholders will give up and go away.

If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to stay patient and persistent. Keep detailed records of all communications with the adjuster, and consider hiring an attorney to help you navigate the process. Don’t accept a lower settlement just because you’re tired of waiting.

FAQ:

Question
Answer
What should I do if the adjuster keeps asking for more documentation?
Make sure you’re providing all the information you can, but don’t go overboard. If the adjuster seems to be asking for unnecessary documentation, consider consulting with an attorney.
How long is too long to wait for an adjuster to investigate my claim?
There is no hard and fast rule, but if it has been several weeks or even months with no progress, it may be time to seek legal assistance.

Game #2: Lowball Offers

Another game that insurance adjusters play is offering lowball settlement offers. They hope that policyholders will take the offer just to get some compensation, even though it’s much lower than what they’re entitled to. Adjusters may use tactics like emphasizing the costs of litigation, or downplaying the severity of the injuries or damages.

If you receive a lowball offer, don’t feel pressured to accept it. Consult with an attorney to get a better idea of what your claim is worth. Keep in mind that insurance adjusters are working to protect their bottom line, not yours.

FAQ:

Question
Answer
What should I do if the adjuster emphasizes the costs of litigation?
Don’t let this scare you – many attorneys offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Consult with an attorney to learn more.
What if the adjuster downplays the severity of my injuries or damages?
Make sure you have adequate documentation of your injuries or damages, including medical records and repair estimates.

Game #3: Denial Tactics

The most extreme tactic that insurance adjusters use is outright denial of the claim. They may argue that the policy doesn’t cover the type of damage or injury, or that the policyholder was at fault for the incident. In some cases, adjusters may even accuse policyholders of fraud or other wrongdoing.

If your claim is denied, it’s important to understand why. Review your policy carefully, and consider getting a second opinion from an attorney. Don’t give up just because the adjuster says no – you may still have options.

FAQ:

Question
Answer
What if the adjuster accuses me of fraud?
This can be a serious accusation, but don’t panic. Make sure you have documentation to back up your claim, and consider consulting with an attorney to help you navigate the process.
Is it worth it to fight a denied claim?
It depends on the circumstances of your claim. Consult with an attorney to get a better idea of your options.

Conclusion

Insurance adjusters are not always looking out for policyholders’ best interests. They may engage in delay tactics, lowball offers, or outright denial of claims. If you find yourself in a dispute with an adjuster, stay patient and persistent. Consider consulting with an attorney to help you navigate the process and get the compensation you deserve.