Unscrupulous Stalling Tactics to Watch Out for When Dealing With Claims Adjusters

While not all insurance adjusters use unscrupulous tactics when dealing with claimants, some do. Personal injury lawyers can review your case and help you avoid common stalling tactics adjusters may use before making a determination of benefits.

Bullying or Intimidation

Sadly, personal injury attorneys often hear of adjusters who attempt to intimidate unsophisticated claimants by falsely denying their claims. The adjuster may tell the injured party that he/she doesn't have a claim or that they should take a reduced settlement. Sometimes they may later try denying this behavior, since no written record of the statement is made. If you suspect that an adjuster has unfairly denied your claim or tried to intimidate you, this could violate industry custom. Let your insurance bad faith attorney know right away.

Arbitration

An adjuster may try to convince a claimant to submit their claim to arbitration rather than paying. Arbitration involves bringing in a third party that is disinterested---that is, neutral---to listen to both sides and make a determination regarding the claim. This may seem like a great idea to the unwary claimant, but arbitration can prolong the case. Moreover, the adjuster may suggest that with arbitration the adjuster does not need legal representation. Whether or not good cause exists for an arbitration demand in your claim is a matter best determined by your injury lawyer, not an insurance adjuster.

Upfront Contribution

Unsavory adjusters may predicate payment of a claim upon the claimant making an upfront contribution. Your personal injury lawyer can review your policy and help you determine what is required under the circumstances.

Statute of Limitations

Sometimes adjusters will use a claimant's unfamiliarity with the law against them. Personal injury claimants have strict statutes of limitations that impose deadlines for filing a lawsuit for their injuries. An unsavory adjuster may try to stall the claims process long enough to put the claimant in danger of losing their chance to pursue litigation. Know the law regarding your type of claim. An attorney can help you in this regard. Indeed, the sooner you contact an attorney, the better he/she can advise you as to what laws apply and protect your interests. Your lawyer can walk you through the legal process in the event a lawsuit is necessary.

It is not possible from the outset for promises to be made regarding a particular outcome or settlement amount for a claim. However, it is better to seek assistance from a legal representative rather than rely on the insurance adjuster for advice.

Get experienced personal injury lawyers to represent you with the insurance company.

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