After an accident, you might believe the insurance company is on your side—but the reality is very different. Their main goal is to save money, not protect your interests. To achieve that, many insurers use tactics designed to weaken your claim and pay you far less than you deserve. Recognizing these red flags is key to protecting your rights and securing fair compensation.
1. Pressure to Accept a Quick Settlement
Insurers often offer money right away, before you know the full extent of your injuries or medical costs. Their strategy is to close the case quickly and cheaply, leaving future expenses uncovered.
2. Requesting Excessive Access to Your Medical History
A common tactic is asking for your entire medical record, sometimes going back years, in hopes of finding pre-existing conditions to blame. You should only provide what’s directly related to the accident, not your full history.
3. Denying Injuries Because You Didn’t Seek Immediate Care
If you didn’t see a doctor on the same day, insurers may argue that your injuries “aren’t serious” or are unrelated to the accident. The truth is that many symptoms appear hours or even days later.
4. Downplaying Emotional Trauma or Chronic Pain
Emotional distress, anxiety, and long-term pain are often minimized or ignored by insurance companies. Yet these are legitimate components of compensation that deserve recognition.
5. Intentionally Delaying the Process
Another strategy is dragging out the process—asking for duplicate documents, taking too long to respond, or creating unnecessary obstacles. Their goal is to wear you down so you’ll accept a low settlement out of frustration.
6. How to Protect Yourself From These Tactics
- Never sign or accept a settlement without first consulting a Boston personal injury attorney.
- Share only the medical information relevant to your accident.
- Keep thorough documentation: symptoms, bills, and all communications with the insurer.
- Get legal guidance early to level the playing field and ensure your rights are respected.
Need Legal Assistance? Contact Our Law Firm Today
Insurance companies have trained teams whose job is to minimize payouts. Spotting their tactics, and working with a Boston car accident attorney can be the difference between an unfair settlement and full compensation that truly covers your needs. Don’t face this process alone: being informed is your first line of defense. Contact us today at (617) 338-7400 or use our contact form for your free consultation.