How do I argue with my car insurance adjuster?
Asked by: Shane Reilly | Last update: October 3, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (35 votes)
What to do when you disagree with an insurance adjuster?
If you disagree with the adjuster's final estimate, tell the company why. The company may have overlooked something and may make adjustments. Make sure to send any supporting documentation, such as a contractor's estimate for the repairs.
What not to say when talking to insurance adjuster?
Some key phrases to avoid saying to an insurance adjuster include: “I'm sorry.” “It was all/partly my fault.” “I did not see the other person/driver.”
How do you beat claims adjuster?
- Write a convincing demand letter to your insurance company.
- Carefully review any settlement offers you receive.
- Reject a settlement offer in writing on your behalf.
- Counter your lowball settlement offer.
How to negotiate with an auto insurance adjuster?
Here's how to negotiate with insurance adjusters like a pro:
Prepare thoroughly by knowing your policy details and the value of your claim. Gather all evidence, including photos, medical records, and repair estimates. Stay calm, be polite, and firm in your communications.
9 Questions Insurance Adjusters DON'T Want You To Ask
Can you ask for more money when your car is totaled?
In some cases, you may get more insurance money for a totaled car than for repairs. In addition, it is possible to negotiate a higher settlement by providing evidence that your car was worth more than the insurance company's initial valuation.
How to get a higher insurance settlement?
How to scare a car insurance adjuster?
Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney. The most effective way to scare an insurance adjuster is by hiring an experienced personal injury attorney. A skilled lawyer knows the tactics adjusters use and can counteract them with compelling evidence and persuasive arguments.
What do insurance companies fear the most?
It's simple: Insurance companies' legal teams hate having to go before juries. Naturally, it's up to juries to apply the law in a fair and even-handed manner. However, it never helps insurance companies to be seen as the villains who are trying to get one over on people in genuine need.
Can you ask for a different adjuster?
Even if you don't hire a private claims adjuster, you can still work with the insurance company's adjuster. If you're not pleased with the initial adjuster that your insurance provides, you can contact them and request a new person.
How to prepare for a car insurance adjuster?
Insurance adjusters will often try to test your memory and have you recount your story several times over a long period to find any inconsistencies. That is why you should always be prepared with notes and evidence or have me, your attorney, speak to them. Car accidents are some of the most easily arguable accidents.
How do you respond to a low settlement offer?
Gather and present evidence to support your claim for higher damages. Negotiate skillfully with the insurance adjuster to work towards a fair settlement. Advise you on when to accept an offer and when to keep fighting for more money. If needed, file a lawsuit and represent you in court to get the damages you deserve.
Can you trust your insurance adjuster?
That said, it's always prudent to use caution when you're speaking to an insurance adjuster after an accident. These individuals have the tough job of thoroughly reviewing your case to determine an appropriate payout, and they may not always have your best interests at the forefront of their minds.
How to get more from a car insurance claim?
What not to say to insurance claim adjuster?
- admitting fault,
- anything about your injuries,
- anything on the record,
- speculating about the crash,
- that you do not have a lawyer,
- providing unnecessary information,
- accepting a settlement, and.
- sharing medical records.
What is a bad faith claim?
Looking for evidence that supports the insurance company's basis for denying a claim and ignoring evidence that supports the policyholder's basis for making a claim is considered bad faith. If an insurer fails to promptly reply to a policyholder's claim, that act of negligence, willful or not, is considered bad faith.
What reduces the amount paid in a claims settlement?
Contributory Negligence: Insurers may try to shift blame onto you to reduce or eliminate their payout. Threatening Litigation: Some insurers use the threat of a lengthy legal battle to pressure claimants into accepting lower settlements.
Who is the most trusted insurance company?
- Best for customer satisfaction: Erie Insurance.
- Best for seniors: Nationwide.
- Best for liability insurance: Auto-Owners.
- Best for claims filing : State Farm.
- Best for bundling: American Family.
- Best for accident forgiveness: Progressive.
- Best for military members and veterans: USAA.
Should you be honest with insurance company?
Providing accurate information is key to a fair and equitable claims processing. When policyholders are honest with their insurance companies, it builds trust and strengthens the relationship between the two parties. Dishonesty can undermine the entire insurance system and lead to higher premiums for everyone.
Can you file a complaint against an insurance adjuster?
If you're dissatisfied with the actions of your insurance company or insurance agent, you can file a complaint with your state department of insurance (DOI). Delays, denials, and unsatisfactory settlements are among some of the most common reasons for consumers to file complaints.
Do insurance adjusters lowball?
Insurance adjusters are often given bonuses or other incentives based on how much money they save the company by getting claimants to accept low settlements. Making lowball offers is a key way insurers try to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line.
How do I convince my insurance adjuster?
Know What You Want: When you talk to the insurance claims adjuster, be clear about what you're asking for. Don't leave it up to them to decide how much money you should receive. Instead, give them a specific number that you feel is fair. Also, be sure to have documents to substantiate your claim for that price.
How to get maximum settlement from a car accident?
- Don't be in a rush to settle.
- Get all the medical treatment you need.
- Consider hiring a lawyer.
- Do not take the first offer (or the second)
- Seek professional legal advice about the value of your case.
What is a reasonable settlement figure?
A reasonable proposed settlement figure is one that takes into account the amount of awards juries in your area have made in recent, similar cases. Your initial settlement demand should be a number that's high enough to leave you room for negotiation.
Do insurance companies prefer to settle?
Avoiding a Lawsuit or Trial
When an insurance company offers you a quick settlement offer, it wants to avoid a lawsuit or going to court. Insurance companies usually want to avoid getting involved in lawsuits and lengthy trials. Litigating a personal injury case can be expensive. Additionally, lawsuits are uncertain.