Insurance adjusters are responsible for protecting their company’s profits after a crash by assessing the level of damages and assigning appropriate compensation. They must perform an unbiased, professional evaluation to provide the most accurate assessment of the damages and determine what the insured should receive.
Adjusters must be mindful of how much is being charged to those affected and ensure that they are not paying for services or repairs beyond what is necessary. Keeping company profits in mind does not have to mean taking advantage of those who have endured a crash; instead, it means getting an exact value measure to fairly compensate those who need it, as well as protect the interests of the insurance provider.
In some cases, though, insurance adjusters do unscrupulous things to limit how much claimants can recover.
Delay Claims
Insurance claims can be confusing and complex processes, often involving a great deal of paperwork. Unfortunately, some insurance adjusters may seek to delay the process in an effort to either deny or lower the value of the claim. While delays are usually not intentional, it is important for those filing a claim to stay persistent and follow up regularly with their adjuster to ensure that the process moves smoothly.
In addition, if an adjuster does appear to be deliberately dragging out the process, it might be prudent for the policyholder to contact their insurance provider’s headquarters to resolve any outstanding issues. Insurance providers always want customers to have a positive experience and should respond quickly with solutions.
Minimize Amounts for Damage
Sometimes their judgement can be clouded by their organization’s bottom line, and they may minimize the overall amount for damage incurred, leaving the claimant with less compensation than is justified.
It's important to understand that this may happen, and you should always make sure you understand everything in any insurance documents before signing off on them. Have someone you trust review the information carefully; it may help ensure that you get all the money necessary to cover your damages in full.
Record Statements
Insurance adjusters work diligently to be sure that all claims are justified and that every victim's case is taken seriously. However, insurance adjusters may record claimants during consultation meetings to deny them claims if needed. In addition, statements made by a claimant can impact the outcome of their case if used on the opposite side of a dispute or lawsuit in court.
For these reasons, it is important for claimants to always speak with an experienced attorney about the specifics of their case before agreeing to any further communication with an insurance adjuster. This way, all parties involved are aware and cautious of what is said to ensure a just outcome for any legal proceedings that may occur.
Deny Responsibility for the Damage
After a car crash, drivers may be left in a chaotic and worrisome state. Though insurance adjusters can provide crucial assistance to victims of an auto accident, unfortunately, an adjuster may refuse to accept responsibility for the damage incurred.
That is why it is important for drivers to be knowledgeable about their car insurance policies and familiarize themselves with what’s covered under their policy. If you do find yourself in such a situation, understanding your legal rights can have tremendous value toward ensuring that you receive fair compensation at the end of the claims process.
Only Pay Out Minimum Coverage Limits
Insurance adjusters may have a difficult job juggling the rights of both policyholders and insurance companies. When it comes to deciding how much to pay out for damages, adjusters are only permitted to pay up to the coverage limits stated in each policy.
Unfortunately, this means that even if substantial damage has occurred, the maximum amount payable by the insurance company will remain unchanged. Adjusters must ensure that claims are paid fairly and follow procedure in order to protect both parties from abuse and misrepresentation during the adjustment process.
Act Friendly During the Process
It is not uncommon, however, for adjusters to employ an amiable approach when engaging with parties to acquire greater levels of cooperation between them - even if it means using friendly tactics. While it has proven effective in some contexts, it is important to be aware that this friendliness may simply be a tactic employed by the adjuster to extract more information or documentation from those interacting with them.
Therefore, it is advisable to remain vigilant and stay focused on the task at hand while engaging with insurance adjusters to ensure your settlement is processed as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Offer a Low Settlement
Even with their obligations in mind, it is important to note that insurance adjusters may offer a low settlement or deny a claim to minimize the amount of money the insurer pays out. Therefore, it's essential to be prepared when negotiating with an adjuster by understanding your policy details and collecting any relevant documentation for your case.
When equipped with knowledge, evidence, and clarification of your situation, you can help yourself become fully informed on your policy's benefits so that you can confidently come away with a fair settlement.
Tell You That You Don’t Need a Lawyer
Insurance adjusters may make it seem like you don't need an attorney if you have experienced property damage due to an accident. Do not be fooled! In legal situations, such as those involving insurance claims, having a lawyer by your side can help ensure that you get the financial compensation and restitution to which you are entitled.
Attorneys are able to navigate complex legal processes, represent a non-biased opinion of your situation, challenge insurance companies’ decisions, and use their expertise to negotiate the best possible settlement on your behalf. If something doesn't feel right or you have doubts concerning the outcome of an insurance claim, don't wait until later to look for legal advice.
Reaching out for professional help from tried-and-true attorneys will better equip you with the resources necessary to protect your rights and interests.
