How to Scare California Insurance Adjusters

Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA

Short answer: The single best way to “scare” an insurance adjuster in California, is to hire an experienced personal injury lawyer.

Insurance adjusters generally don’t like personal injury attorneys because they understand the legal complexities, negotiate aggressively on behalf of their clients, and strive to secure higher settlements, which usually increases costs for insurance companies.

If you forgo hiring an injury attorney, follow some or all of the steps below to show the insurance adjuster you’re dealing with you’re not afraid.

“Secret” Tactics to Use to Scare a Car Insurance Adjuster Towards a Fair Settlement

1. Demonstrate your knowledge of California car accident and injury laws.
2. Understand that insurance adjusters are trying to make you settle for as little as possible (generally the first offer is not the best offer you can get).
3. Document everything. This includes injuries, medical bills, medical treatment, evidence, bills etc.
4. Be patient. Insurance adjusters will often try to stall, hoping you get desperate and call asking for any settlement they’re willing to offer. Don’t do that. Be patient.
5. Don’t Admit Fault (any wrongdoing).
6. Don’t discuss you or your family’s finances.
7. Don’t say “sorry”.
8. Don’t threaten an adjuster with violence or any other means.
9. Do not sign blank medical releases.
10. Don’t give recorded statements when possible.
11. Don’t accept denials.
12. Take your time and review the settlement offer once it comes.
13. Reject any “lowball” offers. Generally, the first settlement won’t be what your case could be worth.
14. Finish all medical treatment.
15. If necessary, report your insurance adjuster for unprofessional or unethical behavior (this happens more than you might think).

Remember, every accident and claim is unique, so it’s crucial to go over the applicable laws for your case. If at any point you feel overwhelmed or unsure about the process, reach out to one of our personal injury attorneys to ensure you protect your rights and receive fair compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should You Not Say When Talking to an Insurance Adjuster?

When speaking to an insurance adjuster, it’s crucial to be cautious about what you say. Avoid admitting fault, saying “sorry”, speculating about injuries, or providing unnecessary details.

Be careful with recorded statements and seek legal advice before giving one. Refrain from discussing unrelated past injuries or medical conditions. Take your time before accepting a settlement offer and avoid discussing your financial situation.

Consulting with a personal injury attorney can provide valuable guidance to protect your rights during conversations with insurance adjusters.

What Are Common Insurance Adjuster Scare Tactics?

Insurance adjusters may downplay the severity of injuries, question medical treatment, and challenge the extent of damages. They may also try to shift blame onto the claimant, use recorded statements against them, or pressure them into accepting quick settlement offers.

If these don’t work, they may also use delay tactics or present low offers, hoping to exploit financial difficulties or the desire for a quick resolution. Recognizing these tactics or seeking legal guidance can help protect your interests and pursue a fair settlement.

How Do I Ask for a Bigger Settlement?

To request a larger settlement from an insurance adjuster, gather strong evidence of your damages, including medical records and bills, document your pain and suffering, and present a clear and persuasive argument based on the facts.

Get in Touch with a Lawyer

If you have questions about your recent car accident, we have answers. LawLinq works with some of the best California car accident lawyers and they offer initial consultations free of charge.  If you’d like to get in touch with a top rated car accident attorney to find out what your case is worth, give us a call.

About the Author

Jessica Anvar

California Consumer Litigation Attorney Jessica Anvar, Esq. is the Founder and Managing Partner of Lemon Law Experts California’s leading lemon law firm. She has multiple years’ worth of experience working with both state and federal lemon laws. Her practice focuses exclusively on consumer protection cases. Ms. Anvar received her J.D. from Loyola Law School. She also earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Loyola Marymount University. Jessica is very active in her local legal community and has helped thousands of clients across the state of California. She has an outstanding record as a true advocate for consumers.