Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when you file an insurance claim after an accident or personal injury?The truth is, your insurance company might employ various tactics to deny and devalue your claim. 

In this article, we will explore some of the common strategies insurers often use, leaving you questioning the very protection you thought you had,including how you can avoid these kind of frustrations: 

The Waiting Game: Are They Hoping You’ll Give Up?

Have you ever experienced a prolonged delay in the claims process? Well, insurance companies may employ the tactic of deliberate stalling, hoping that you’ll throw in the towel and accept a lower settlement out of frustration. In most cases, the insurance company boasts a lot of time on their end. 

Hence, the longer they can draw out the process, the more likely you are to settle for less than you deserve. Don’t be a victim of delaying injury payments. Stay persistent, document all communications, and consider seeking legal advice if delays become excessive.

Selective Memory: Are they Conveniently Forgetting Important Details?

You might provide extensive documentation, only to have the insurance company conveniently overlook crucial details. Selective memory is a tactic used to undermine the strength of your claim by downplaying or omitting essential information. They might argue that certain damages aren’t covered or that your injuries are less severe than they actually are. To go around that, you can combat selective memory by keeping meticulous records, taking photos of damages, and obtaining third-party opinions if necessary. These will come in handy when you notice any intentional commission on their part. 

Blame Game: Shifting Responsibility onto You

Do you feel like the insurance company is pointing fingers at you rather than providing the support you need? The blame game is a strategy often used to shift responsibility onto the policyholder, questioning your actions and attempting to reduce their own liability. They may argue that you were partially or wholly at fault for the accident. 

However, you must ensure that you stand your ground and don’t let them shift blame onto you without a fight. It is vital that you consult with a good personal injury attorney like Herrman & Herrman to ensure you aren’t unfairly burdened with blame. The attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your personal injury. 

This may involve gathering evidence, collecting witness statements, obtaining accident reports, and collaborating with experts to reconstruct the incident accurately

The Fine Print: Going for the Ambiguous Policy Language

Insurance companies might rely on ambiguous language in your policy to deny or undervalue your claim. It’s not uncommon for them to interpret policy terms in their favour, leaving you with a fraction of the compensation you expected. 

You should arm yourself with a thorough understanding of your policy. If the language is unclear, seek clarification from your insurance representative or consult legal advice. 

Surveillance Tactics

Some insurance companies sometimes employ surveillance tactics to monitor claimants, hoping to catch them in activities that contradict their reported injuries. A seemingly harmless social media post or a day out with family and friends can be misconstrued to undermine the severity of your injuries. Be cautious about what you share on social media, and be aware that surveillance might be used against you. Stick to the facts, and if you feel your privacy is violated, seek legal guidance.

Undervaluing Damages

Insurance companies may intentionally undervalue your claim, providing settlement offers that fall far short of covering the actual costs incurred. 

They might underestimate repair costs, medical expenses, or the long-term impact of your injuries. 

You will need to document all expenses meticulously and obtain multiple estimates for repairs or medical treatments. Don’t be afraid to negotiate or seek legal help to ensure fair compensation.

Lowball Settlement Offers: Banking on Your Desperation

Lowball offers are a common tactic employed by insurance companies, relying on your financial strain or eagerness to settle quickly. Accepting such offers may leave you struggling to cover expenses that arise later or deal with ongoing medical issues. You need to resist the urge to accept the first offer. 

Evaluate the true cost of your damages and consult with professionals who can provide guidance on fair compensation.

Wrapping up

In conclusion, understanding these dark tactics used by insurance companies in claims will empower you to navigate the claims process with eyes wide open. Your insurance company might employ these strategies to deny or devalue your claim, but with knowledge, diligence, and possibly legal support, you can ensure that you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. Don’t let these tactics leave you questioning the security of your insurance coverage. Stand up for your rights and protect your financial well-being!