If you’ve been injured in an accident, you’ll likely deal with an insurance adjuster who may seem sympathetic and eager to help. They may quickly offer a settlement, leaving you wondering if enlisting legal help is necessary. After all, if the adjuster appears friendly and professional, they’ll give you no reason not to trust them.
While an initial interaction might make you feel at ease, it’s good to remember that insurance adjusters work for an insurance company, not for you. No matter how cordial or cooperative an adjuster seems, their primary goal is to minimize payouts. The first settlement offer you receive may be lower than what you may be entitled to, especially when considering long-term medical bills, lost wages and other damages.
How insurance adjusters work for their employers
One of the reasons insurance adjusters may seem nice is to gain your trust and encourage you to accept a quick, lowball settlement. They are trained to ask leading questions that could weaken your case or push you into settling before knowing the full extent of your injuries.
This friendly demeanor is strategically designed to encourage you to share details about your accident and injuries without hesitation. The adjuster may say things like, “I understand how difficult this must be for you,” or “We want to make sure you’re taken care of,” which can create a sense of trust.
Adjusters are trained negotiators who excel at gauging your emotional state. They know that the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, causing stress and uncertainty. By projecting a friendly image, they hope to reduce your defenses and encourage you to make hasty decisions.
For instance, they might present you with a quick settlement offer shortly after your accident, leading you to believe that accepting it is the best course of action. This tactic exploits your desire for closure and can pressure you into settling before you fully understand your rights or the potential long-term implications of your injuries.
Moreover, the adjuster may also downplay the seriousness of your injuries, suggesting that many individuals recover quickly and don’t require extensive medical treatment. This tactic aims to normalize your experience, making you feel like your situation is less severe than it may truly be.
Adjusters are skilled negotiators, and their loyalty lies with insurance companies. They know that once you accept an offer, you waive your right to pursue any further compensation. With legal representation, the playing field is leveled, allowing you to negotiate from a position of strength.
