The insurance adjuster who calls you sounds friendly. They might say things like “we want to help you.” But here's the truth: their job is to pay you as little as possible.
1. The Adjuster Is Not on Your Side
Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company — not for you. Their performance is often measured by how much they save the company per claim. They are trained negotiators with scripts designed to minimize your payout.
Key Insight
According to the Insurance Research Council, claimants who hire an attorney receive an average of 3.5x more compensation than those who settle on their own — even after attorney fees are deducted.
2. Common Tactics Insurance Companies Use
These are the most common strategies insurance companies use to minimize what they pay you:
The Quick Lowball Offer
They call within days of your accident with a fast settlement offer. It sounds generous when you're stressed — but it's almost always a fraction of what your claim is actually worth. Once you accept, you can't come back for more.
The Recorded Statement Trap
They ask for a recorded statement 'for their records.' Anything you say can be used to dispute your claim later. You are not legally required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer.
Delay, Delay, Delay
They drag out the process hoping you'll get frustrated and accept a lower amount. Medical bills pile up, and the financial pressure makes a bad offer look better than it is.
Blaming You
They'll look for any reason to assign partial fault to you. In California, comparative negligence reduces your payout by your percentage of fault — so shifting even 20% to you saves them 20%.
Disputing Medical Treatment
They'll question whether your treatment was 'medically necessary' or claim your injuries existed before the accident. This is why continuous medical documentation from day one is critical.
Surveillance
In larger claims, insurers may hire private investigators to monitor your social media or even follow you. A single photo of you lifting groceries can be used to argue you're not as hurt as you claim.
3. What to Say (and Not Say) After an Accident
Do Say
- •"I was in an accident and I'm reporting it."
- •"I'm seeking medical treatment."
- •"I'd like to speak with an attorney before giving a statement."
- •"Please send me that in writing."
Don't Say
- •"I'm fine" or "I feel okay" (injuries can appear days later)
- •"It was partly my fault"
- •"I accept your offer" (without consulting a lawyer)
- •Anything about your injuries on social media
4. When It's Time to Involve a Lawyer
Not every claim needs an attorney. But if any of these apply to your situation, it's strongly recommended:
- →Your medical bills exceed $5,000
- →You missed work due to your injuries
- →The insurance company denied your claim or offered a lowball settlement
- →Your injuries may require long-term or ongoing treatment
- →The other driver was uninsured or underinsured
- →Multiple parties or vehicles were involved
- →You're being asked for a recorded statement before you've fully recovered
5. Your Rights as a Claimant in California
California law gives you specific protections when dealing with insurance companies:
You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer.
Insurance companies must respond to your claim within 15 days and accept or deny within 40 days.
CA Insurance Code § 790.03
You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
CCP § 335.1
California's minimum liability coverage increased to $30,000/person as of January 2025.
CA AB 1107
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