Insurance companies are supposed to protect you after an accident. Despite their claims that they’re “on your side,” that you’re “in good hands,” or even that they’re “like a good neighbor,” they often do more harm than good. The reality is, insurance companies are businesses focused on protecting their bottom line. One way they do that is by paying out as little as possible on claims—even when you’re entitled to more.
5 Techniques Insurance Companies Use to Devalue Claims
Here are five techniques insurance companies use to devalue claims and why having a personal injury lawyer in your corner can make a huge difference.
1. Immediate Lowball Offers and Quick Settlements
One of the most common tactics insurance companies use after an accident is offering a quick, lowball settlement—often before the full extent of injuries or losses are even known. Insurers count on people being desperate for money or impatient to get the process over with. However, settling early can mean walking away with far less than you deserve, especially if your injuries worsen or require long-term care. That check for $10,000 might seem like the best option when you’re at your most vulnerable, dealing with mounting medical bills and time away from work, but in many cases, your claim could be worth significantly more.
A personal injury attorney can evaluate the real value of your claim, factoring in long-term medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Before you sign anything, it’s best to have a lawyer review the offer. An attorney can help you negotiate a better outcome or take your case to court if necessary. Most injury attorneys offer free consultations, so there’s no downside to having your case reviewed.
2. Delaying the Claims Process
Another technique many insurance companies use to devalue claims is dragging out the process. Adjusters may take an unnecessarily long time reviewing your case, delay returning phone calls or emails, or give vague updates in hopes of wearing you down so you’re more likely to accept a lower settlement. These delays can be especially harmful when you’re facing urgent expenses like car repairs or unpaid medical bills. This shady tactic is designed to create pressure and make you feel like any offer is better than none.
You can avoid dealing with some of this frustration by hiring a personal injury lawyer. An attorney will take over communication with the insurance company, ensure deadlines are met, and hold the insurance company accountable for delays. By stepping in as your advocate, a personal injury attorney helps prevent stalling tactics from impacting your recovery or weakening your case.
3. Disputing Policy Coverage
Insurance companies sometimes claim that damages aren’t covered under the terms of your policy. They might argue that a specific injury isn’t covered, that certain treatments weren’t “medically necessary,” or that an exclusion applies. These interpretations are rarely in your favor and often rely on complex legal language buried in your policy documents. Many people assume the insurer must be right and accept the denial without challenging it.
However, a personal injury attorney understands how to interpret policy language and fight back against unfair coverage denials. If you’re being told that your injuries or treatment aren’t covered, it’s a good idea to consult a lawyer. Your attorney can review the fine print, push back with evidence, and advocate for the compensation you deserve.
4. Using Your Words Against You
Anything you say can be twisted and used against you to devalue your claim. Insurance companies are often sneaky in their attempts to get evidence. They may request a recorded statement soon after the accident, hoping you’ll inadvertently downplay your injuries or admit partial fault. Social media is also fair game. Photos, check-ins, and even comments can be used to paint a misleading picture of your recovery.
A personal injury attorney can advise you on what to say (and what not to say) to protect your case. They can handle communications with the insurance company so you don’t accidentally provide information that could be used against you. Your lawyer will also caution you on social media use and help ensure the facts—not out-of-context statements—speak for your claim.
5. Disputing Liability
Finally, insurance companies often try to argue that their policyholder wasn’t at fault—or that you were partially to blame. Even in cases where the evidence clearly shows you weren’t responsible, insurers may try to create confusion or raise doubt to reduce the amount they have to pay. This tactic may involve shifting blame entirely or using comparative negligence laws to argue that your compensation should be reduced based on your “share” of the fault.
You don’t have to play the blame game with a personal injury lawyer on your side. Your attorney will help you gather and preserve crucial evidence like photos, videos, police reports, and witness statements to establish liability. They’ll fight back against attempts to blame you for an accident you didn’t cause and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Why Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer After an Accident?
Insurance companies often have entire teams of professionals working behind the scenes to protect their profits—adjusters, investigators, lawyers, and analysts—all trained to find ways to deny or devalue your claim. Most individuals don’t have the resources or experience to stand up to these tactics on their own. However, when you hire a personal injury lawyer, you don’t have to face them alone. You get a dedicated team of legal professionals who know the insurance companies’ playbook and how to fight back.
At The Carlson Law Firm, we stand up for you and work tirelessly to make sure you get the justice and compensation you deserve at no risk to you. Our car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. No upfront costs, no hourly billing—just experienced, compassionate legal representation fighting for your best outcome.
The Carlson Law Firm Can Help
Insurance companies are skilled at minimizing payouts. From lowball offers to delay tactics, they’re counting on you not knowing your rights or the true value of your claim. That’s why having an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side is so important. When you hire The Carlson Law Firm, you’re not just getting legal representation—you’re gaining a team of compassionate advocates who genuinely care about what you’re going through.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, don’t settle for less than you deserve. Our caring and compassionate personal injury lawyers are here to walk you through your case every step of the way and stand up to insurance companies who try to minimize your claim. Contact us today for a free consultation. We care. We can help.
