When you or a loved one faces a catastrophic injury or wrongful death due to someone else’s negligence, you deserve justice and full compensation for your suffering. However, getting that fair settlement is rarely straightforward—especially when dealing with powerful insurance companies.
At first, these companies may seem friendly, sending “caring” adjusters to speak with you. But behind the scenes, they often use tactics to deny or undervalue your claim. Here’s what you need to know about their strategies, and how a skilled lawyer can help you fight back to secure what’s rightfully yours.
Tactics Insurance Companies Use to Minimize or Deny Claims
- Downplaying Injuries or Death Claims
Insurance adjusters know that a catastrophic injury claim can mean a large payout, so they may argue your injury or loss isn’t as severe as you claim. They may pressure you to accept an early settlement before the full extent of your damages becomes clear. Even if the initial offer seems like “fast cash,” it’s often much lower than what you deserve. - Blaming the Victim
One of the most common tactics insurance companies use is to shift blame to the victim. They may argue that the injured person contributed to the accident or wasn’t following safety measures. In cases of wrongful death, they may even try to suggest that the deceased was at fault. It’s unfair, but it’s a strategy they use to reduce their liability. - Dragging Out the Process
Insurance companies know that time is on their side. They may delay responding, request more documentation, or even deny claims outright to wear you down. They hope that as bills pile up, you’ll accept a lower settlement just to get something. This can be especially harmful when you’re dealing with life-altering injuries or the tragic loss of a loved one. - Using Complex Language
Policies are often filled with legal jargon and loopholes that are difficult for anyone without legal expertise to understand. Insurance companies use this complexity to their advantage, making it hard for you to know if what they’re offering is fair. They may use vague policy wording to justify denying your claim, hoping you won’t notice. - Misrepresenting Policy Limits
Sometimes, adjusters may claim that the insurance policy doesn’t cover as much as it really does or that there are caps on certain damages. This misinformation can lead victims to believe they’re not entitled to the compensation they actually deserve.
How a Skilled Lawyer Counters These Strategies
An experienced personal injury lawyer understands these tactics and knows how to counter them. Here’s how:
- Establishing Full Value for Your Claim
A lawyer will thoroughly investigate the extent of your injuries, your long-term needs, and the full financial impact of your loss. They can bring in medical experts, economists, and accident reconstruction professionals to show the real cost of what you’ve been through, ensuring your claim fully reflects the damages you’ve suffered. - Gathering and Preserving Evidence
A skilled lawyer will gather all necessary evidence, from medical records to eyewitness testimony, and ensure it’s preserved. This is critical when countering insurance companies’ attempts to minimize or shift blame, as it builds a strong, undeniable case. - Navigating Policy Language
An experienced lawyer is adept at interpreting complex insurance policies. They know where to look for coverage loopholes and how to expose misrepresentations. With a lawyer on your side, you won’t be taken advantage of by confusing or misleading policy language. - Negotiating Aggressively
Insurance companies respect lawyers who are prepared to take cases to trial. They know that with a skilled lawyer, you’re more likely to receive a fair settlement. Attorneys like Richard Washington prepare every case as if it will go to trial, making it clear that you’re not willing to settle for less than you deserve. - Giving You Peace of Mind
Navigating a wrongful death or catastrophic injury case is stressful enough without worrying about handling insurance negotiations. A personal injury lawyer takes on the heavy lifting so you can focus on your healing or family.
Why Call Richard Washington for Your Catastrophic Injury or Wrongful Death Claim
There are countless personal injury lawyers in Philadelphia, but Richard Washington stands out for his commitment to providing the highest level of legal advocacy. He knows how to face down insurance companies with their armies of attorneys and endless resources. When you hire Richard Washington, you’ll work with a lawyer who understands the pain, the challenges, and the stakes of catastrophic injury and wrongful death claims—and who will fight to maximize your compensation.
Key Reasons to Choose Richard Washington
- No Fees Until Your Case is Resolved: Richard operates on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t owe a penny until we’ve won or settled your case. This ensures that you have nothing to lose by pursuing the justice you deserve.
- Personalized Attention: Richard personally handles each case, so you know you’re not just a number. You’ll have a direct line to someone who cares about your situation and is committed to your success.
- Proven Track Record: With years of experience in personal injury law, Richard has successfully handled challenging cases, securing millions for his clients.
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury or wrongful death, don’t let insurance companies control your future. Contact Richard Washington today to discuss your case. You have rights, and you deserve to have someone on your side who will protect them with everything they’ve got.
Toll free at 1-800-988-0158.