Car accidents can leave you with not only physical injuries but also the frustration of dealing with insurance companies. While you may expect your insurance company to support you, the reality is that many victims of car accidents in Washington find themselves facing unfair tactics used by insurers to deny or minimize their claims. These tactics can leave you struggling to pay for medical bills, repairs, and the emotional toll of the accident.
As a trusted law firm in Washington, the car accident attorneys at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner are dedicated to helping car accident victims get the compensation they deserve. Our team understands the challenges of facing large insurance companies and is committed to making sure that victims aren’t taken advantage of. In this article, we’ll explore common tactics insurance companies use to deny or devalue claims and provide you with actionable strategies for countering them.
Tactic #1: Offering Fast, Low Settlements
One of the most common tactics insurance companies use after a car accident is offering low settlements. This offer typically comes when you are at your most vulnerable—possibly still recovering from injuries and facing mounting medical bills. The hope is that you’ll accept the quick cash to avoid a prolonged process. Settling quickly for a low amount helps insurance companies save on payouts. They calculate the initial offer to entice you to settle before you realize the full extent of your injuries or damages.
Accepting the lowball offer can result in victims receiving insufficient compensation for the following:
- Long-term medical expenses,
- Rehabilitation costs, and
- Lost wages.
Before accepting any offer, it’s essential to consult with an attorney who can assess the actual value of your claim. Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner evaluates all aspects of your recovery, including future medical treatments and lost income, to ensure that any offer you accept is fair and covers your needs.
Tactic #2: Delaying the Claims Process
Insurance companies delaying claims is another common tactic victims can experience. This tactic can add significant stress during an already difficult time. The goal is simple: the longer the process takes, the more likely you will become frustrated and overwhelmed. Insurance companies may:
- Slow down the review of your case,
- Drag their feet in responding to your requests, or
- Fail to provide updates on the status of your claim.
When dealing with medical bills, car repairs, and missed work, the last thing you need is prolonged uncertainty. It can also leave you without the necessary funds to continue your treatment. One of the best ways to hold the insurance company accountable is to maintain thorough records of all communication. Stay persistent and don’t allow them to delay the process without valid reasons. We can ensure they follow the law and provide timely responses, taking the pressure off you and allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Tactic #3: Claiming No Liability or Assigning Fault to the Victim
Insurance companies may argue that their policyholder wasn’t at fault or attempt to partially blame the victim when they dispute liability. This tactic can happen even if the evidence clearly shows that the insured was responsible for the accident.
By taking advantage of Washington’s pure contributory negligence law, disputing liability aims to reduce the payout or, in some cases, deny the claim entirely. Creating doubt about who caused the accident can help the insurance company shift some or all of the responsibility onto the victim, minimizing their financial liability and preventing a fair settlement. Extended legal battles can also occur should the insurance company contest fault.
Gathering evidence immediately after the accident is critical. This evidence can include:
- Police reports,
- Witness statements,
- Photographs, and
- Medical records.
A seasoned attorney, like those at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, can work to gather additional evidence, challenge liability distribution claims, and advocate to ensure that the at-fault party is held accountable.
Tactic #4: Using Recorded Statements Against You
Insurance companies may request a recorded statement from you shortly after the accident. These statements are often designed to sound routine, but anything you say can be used against you to deny or devalue your claim. Insurers may ask leading questions to get you to make statements that weaken your case inadvertently. They’ll then use your own words or twist even innocuous comments to suggest that you were partially at fault or that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
Always consult with a lawyer before agreeing to provide a recorded statement. A lawyer can help protect your interests by ensuring the insurance company does not coerce you into saying anything that could hurt your case.
Tactic #5: Ignoring or Disputing Medical Bills and Records
Insurance companies may challenge the legitimacy or reasonableness of your medical bills, attempting to deny necessary treatments or dispute the amount owed. The insurance company hopes to reduce the amount they must pay by questioning your expenses. They may argue that specific treatments were unnecessary or that you inflated the costs. This aggressive strategy can result in you having to pay out of pocket for medical bills or accept a lower settlement than you deserve
Keep thorough records of all medical expenses and treatments. Work with your attorney to challenge any attempts by the insurance company to devalue your medical expenses. Our attorneys will ensure that your medical needs are appropriately factored into your settlement.
Protect Your Rights with Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner
Insurance companies are in the business of minimizing their payouts—and that often means using deceptive tactics to deny or undervalue your claim. But with the help of a dedicated law firm like Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, you can fight back. If you’ve experienced a car accident in Washington, don’t let an insurance company take advantage of you. Contact us today for a free consultation and get the help you need to receive the fair compensation you deserve.
