Mahna Pourshaban - Attorney at Gina Corena & Associates

Trial Attorney at Gina Corena & Associates

Practice Areas: Personal Injury

Dealing with insurance companies after an accident can be frustrating. While they may seem cooperative, their goal is to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line. This often means using settlement tactics to devalue or deny valid claims.

If you’re in this situation, understanding these tactics and knowing how to counter them is crucial. In this guide, we’ll uncover the most common strategies insurance companies use and how you can protect your rights.

Why Insurance Companies Try to Devalue Claims

Insurance companies operate as for-profit businesses. Their financial success depends on paying out as little as possible while still appearing to serve policyholders.

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), insurance companies collect over $1.3 trillion in premiums annually but consistently look for ways to reduce claim payouts.

This means claim adjusters are trained to reduce settlement values, dispute liability, and even deny valid claims whenever possible.

“The insurance company is not your friend. Their primary goal is to protect their profits—not your rights.”

— Gina Corena, Personal Injury Attorney

Common Insurance Company Settlement Tactics

Tactic #1: Offering a Quick, Lowball Settlement

Shortly after your accident, the insurance company may offer a fast settlement before you even understand the full extent of your injuries.

  • This offer is often far lower than what you’re entitled to.
  • Accepting it waives your right to seek additional compensation later.
  • You may still incur medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing treatment costs.

What to do:

Never accept a settlement without consulting a personal injury attorney who can accurately assess your damages.

“A quick settlement is rarely a fair one. The insurer is betting on your desperation—don’t let them win.”

Quick settlements exploit accident victims - corena law

Tactic #2: Requesting a Blanket Medical Release

Insurance adjusters may ask you to sign a broad medical release form under the pretense of verifying your injuries.

However, this allows them to:

  • Access your entire medical history, including pre-existing conditions.
  • Claim that your injuries were not caused by the accident.
  • Use any unrelated past injuries to dispute your claim.

What to do:

Only release specific medical records related to your accident. Consult a lawyer before signing anything.

“A medical release form is a fishing expedition—insurance companies use it to find reasons to deny your claim.”

Tactic #3: Delaying the Claims Process

Insurance companies intentionally delay claims in the hopes that:

  • You’ll become financially desperate and accept a lower offer.
  • You’ll miss important deadlines, causing your claim to be invalid.
  • You’ll give up entirely, allowing them to avoid paying.

What to do:

  • Keep detailed records of all communication.
  • Follow up regularly and demand updates.
  • Work with a legal team to apply pressure.

“Delays are a tactic, not an accident. The longer they stall, the more they hope you’ll settle for less.”

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Tactic #4: Using Your Own Words Against You

Adjusters may ask for a recorded statement under the guise of “clarifying the details.” However, their fundamental objective is to:

  • Catch you contradicting yourself.
  • Make you say things that downplay your injuries.
  • Use small talk as evidence against you.

For example:

  • Saying “I feel fine today” can be twisted to argue that your injuries are not serious.
  • Admitting “I was in a rush” could be used to shift partial blame onto you.

What to do:

  • Decline to give a recorded statement.
  • Consult your lawyer before speaking with an adjuster.
  • Stick to facts only and avoid unnecessary details.

“Anything you say can—and will—be used against you in settlement negotiations.”

Tactic #5: Social Media Surveillance

Insurance companies actively monitor social media for posts that:

  • Suggest you’re not as injured as claimed.
  • Show you engaging in physical activities.
  • Contradict your medical reports.

What to do:

  • Set all accounts to private.
  • Avoid posting about your accident, injuries, or lifestyle.
  • Tell friends and family not to tag you in photos or updates.

“A single social media post can cost you thousands in lost compensation.”

How to Protect Yourself from Insurance Company Tactics

A. Get Medical Attention Immediately

Delaying treatment can weaken your claim. Follow all medical recommendations and keep detailed records.

B. Never Accept the First Offer

Initial settlement offers are strategically low. Always consult an attorney before agreeing to any amount.

C. Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

A skilled lawyer negotiates on your behalf. They know how to counter insurance tactics effectively. Legal representation can increase settlement values by 3x or more. (Source: Insurance Research Council)

“An experienced attorney levels the playing field and ensures you get the compensation you deserve.”

Legal help increases settlement amounts - corena law

FAQs About Insurance Company Settlement Tactics

How do you deal with insurance company settlement tactics?

The best way to handle insurance tactics is to avoid speaking with adjusters directly and hire a personal injury lawyer. They can negotiate fair compensation and prevent you from making mistakes that could harm your claim.

Can I negotiate a settlement with the insurance company myself?

Yes, but it’s not recommended. Insurance adjusters are trained to manipulate claimants into accepting lower settlements. An experienced attorney can ensure you receive the full amount you’re entitled to.

What if the insurance company denies my claim?

If your claim is denied, you still have options. Your lawyer can:

  1. File an appeal.
  2. Negotiate a revised settlement.
  3. Take the case to court if necessary.

Why do insurance companies delay settlements?

Insurance companies delay settlements to pressure claimants into accepting lower offers. They know that financial stress might force victims to settle for less than they deserve.

How can social media affect my injury claim?

If you post about your recovery, travel, or physical activities, the insurance company may use it as evidence that you are not truly injured. It’s best to stay off social media until your case is resolved.

Conclusion

Insurance companies use a variety of tactics to devalue, delay, or deny claims—but you don’t have to fall for them. By understanding their strategies and working with an experienced personal injury attorney, you can protect your rights and maximize your settlement.

At Gina Corena & Associates, we specialize in fighting insurance companies and securing the compensation our clients deserve. If you’ve been injured, don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you.

Contact us today for a free consultation!

As founder of Gina Corena & Associates, she is dedicated to fighting for the rights of the people who suffer life-changing personal injuries in car, truck and motorcycle accidents as well as other types of personal injury. Gina feels fortunate to serve the Nevada community and hold wrongdoers accountable for their harm to her clients.

  • This was my first time using a lawyer, which I needed due a major car accident. They made everything simple and stress free, and I couldn’t be happier with the attentive care I received from everyone at the law office. Gresia was fantastic, and kept in touch regularly. She was professional, knowledgeable, and very kind. I would recommend them to anyone.

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  • I rarely do reviews but I want to share what an outstanding team Gina Corena has. Mahna Pourshaban did such an awesome job In helping us get our settlement, she has treated us like family since day 1 that we met her.. Me and my family want to tell u guys thank u from the bottom of our hearts.

    - The LOPEZ Family

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  • This is the best company I have dealt with hands down. I am super thankful with them for all the work they did on behalf of my case. The process was rather simple and very well explained from start to finish. Thank you so much Gina Corena &. Associates. Thank you Kim for assisting in my case.

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