The 6 Most Common Insurance Adjuster Bad-Faith Techniques
January 30, 2023
You may be surprised that the insurance adjuster who is supposed to be helping you with your claim is negotiating with you in bad faith. If so, you should know that although insurance companies are supposed to be held to a legal standard of good faith when dealing with you, this is not always the case. Still, victims of car accidents in Colorado Springs, CO may qualify for a settlement and should be aware of the most common bad-faith techniques insurance adjusters use. They include the following:
- Quickly denying your claim without taking the time to investigate it.
- Taking too long to determine whether coverage was in effect when the accident or the injury took place.
- Not providing you with a clear written explanation as to why your claim is being denied. This includes using improper legal or medical terms to minimize or deny your claim.
- Ignoring your attempts to communicate with them, such as not responding to your phone calls or not replying to your emails, letters, or texts.
- Being unwilling to negotiate with you after you have filed a valid claim.
- Purposefully dragging out the negotiations until the statute of limitations expires.
Is There Anything You Can Do to Fight Back When Dealing with A Bad Faith Technique from Your Insurance?
Although it may seem like too much of a hassle, particularly when you are overwhelmed by the impact of your injuries or other losses, there are some resources available to you when you are dealing with a bad faith technique. These are some actions you can take to turn things in your favor. However, getting legal representation may be the most effective way since insurance companies know an attorney will not let them get away with any unfair practices.
Send a Letter to the Claims Manager
Sometimes, informing the claims manager might be all it takes to help your claim move forward. Take advantage of this opportunity to present your case in clear and concise terms. Now is not the time to start venting about the behavior of the adjuster. Stick to the facts, such as explaining that the amount offered will be insufficient to cover your medical bills. Confirm that the adjuster already has all relevant documentation to support the claim.
Notify the State Insurance Board
If there is no response or they continue to act in bad faith, complain to your state insurance board to start an investigation into your claim. They will also be able to confirm your suspicions that your insurance company has been acting in bad faith. If so, they may levy fines or take other punitive actions against the company.
Reach Out to a Personal Injury Lawyer
Suppose your lawyer’s opinion is the same as yours regarding the bad-faith action. In that case, the insurance company will certainly take notice since this can have a detrimental effect on the company’s reputation.
When faced with possible legal action, most insurance companies will quickly rein in an adjuster that may put their reputation at risk.
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