6 Tricks Insurance Companies Use to Devalue Your New Haven Accident Settlement

By Your Health Magazine

Getting injured in an accident in New Haven can be overwhelming. Medical bills pile up, time off work can hurt your income, and insurance companies may not offer a fair settlement. Insurance adjusters often use subtle tactics to lower the value of your claim so they can pay less than you deserve. Understanding these tricks can help protect your rights. Speaking with New Haven injury lawyers at Trantolo & Trantolo early on can ensure you are treated fairly and fully compensated.

1. Claiming You Are Partially at Fault

Insurance companies often suggest that the accident was partially your fault. Even if you were not responsible, adjusters may try to create doubt to reduce the payout. They might say you were speeding, not paying attention, or could have avoided the accident. A New Haven injury lawyer can gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and photos to fight these claims and protect your compensation.

2. Offering a Quick Lowball Settlement

One common trick is to offer you money quickly before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Insurance companies hope you accept the first check, which is often far below what your claim is actually worth. These early offers do not cover ongoing medical costs, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Consulting a New Haven injury lawyer ensures you do not accept an unfair offer and that the value of your settlement reflects your true losses.

3. Using Your Words Against You

Adjusters may ask casual questions over the phone or in person and then use your answers to reduce the claim. They look for phrases like “I’m feeling better” or “It’s not that bad” to argue that your injuries are minor. Anything you say can be misinterpreted. Your attorney can handle communication with the insurance company, protecting your statements and keeping your claim strong.

4. Downplaying Medical Bills

Insurance companies often question the necessity or cost of medical treatment. They may say some tests or treatments were unnecessary or inflate your bills as a reason to pay less. This can leave you responsible for expenses that should be covered. A New Haven injury lawyer will work with medical providers to document the need for treatment and ensure all bills are included in your settlement.

5. Dragging Out the Process

Some companies intentionally delay your claim to make you frustrated or desperate for money. They might request repeated documentation, slow down approvals, or ignore calls. Time pressure can lead victims to accept less than they deserve. Hiring an attorney in New Haven, CT, helps speed up the process and holds insurance companies accountable.

6. Misclassifying Your Injuries

Insurance adjusters may label your injuries as minor or temporary to justify a lower payout. They might also claim that your condition existed before the accident. Misclassification reduces compensation for medical costs, pain, and lost income. An experienced New Haven injury lawyer can document your injuries with medical records, expert opinions, and detailed reports to ensure you are fully compensated.

Connecticut Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Lawsuits

Connecticut law limits the amount of time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. Most accident victims in New Haven have two years from the date of the accident to start a claim. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering any compensation. Consulting a New Haven injury lawyer as soon as possible ensures your claim is filed correctly and on time.

How a New Haven Injury Lawyer Helps You Maximize Compensation

A personal injury lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, making sure all medical costs, lost income, and emotional suffering are included in your settlement. They’ll also handle all the paperwork, talk to adjusters, and prepare your case if it goes to court. Having a professional advocate significantly boosts the chances of receiving fair compensation and prevents insurance companies from taking advantage of you.

Protect Your Rights Today

If you were injured in an accident in New Haven, do not wait. Contact a trusted New Haven injury lawyer to review your case, protect your rights, and do everything they can to make sure you receive the full compensation you deserve. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be and the faster you can get the settlement you need.