The Hidden Tactics Insurance Companies Use to Deny Your Claim
When you file an insurance claim after an accident, you expect things to go smoothly. You assume your provider will pay promptly so you can move on. But that’s not always how it goes. Insurance companies often use subtle tactics to delay, downplay, or deny your claim. At Daniel Sagiv Law Group, P.A., we help you understand these strategies and stand up for your rights.
1. Delaying the Inevitable: "Drag-Out Tactics"
Insurance companies count on procrastination. They’ll ask for more records, question every receipt, or take forever to respond. Meanwhile, they hope you’ll give up or settle early for less. A claim that could wrap up in six weeks might stretch into months.
2. Lowball Offers That Feel Like A Set-Up
It’s common to get a quick offer—sometimes before you’ve even assessed your full damages. This figure is often far lower than what you truly deserve. The goal? Get you to accept before you know the real costs of recovery, medical care, or property repairs.
3. Exaggerating Your Fault
Even if you were only partially responsible for the accident, insurers might overstate your fault. That lets them cut what they owe—or deny the claim entirely. Be ready. Document everything: police reports, photos, medical notes, witness statements.
4. Twisting Policy Language
Insurance policies are full of fine print. Companies may lean on ambiguous wording to weaken or reject a claim. They might claim technicalities—a missed deadline, a misplaced signature, or confusing terms—to avoid paying. Reading the fine print with care, or having a lawyer analyze it, is key.
5. Putting You Through the Ringer
Some adjusters are just plain difficult. They’ll call late, put you on hold, say they didn’t get documents—even though you know you submitted them. All of this is designed to frustrate you. The goal? Wear you down until you accept less than you’re owed.
6. Using Recorded Conversations Against You
Here’s a sneaky one: adjusters might record your phone calls and use your own words to diminish liability or argue you’re exaggerating. Even a casual “I’m okay” can be twisted into a sign you’re not hurt. Always stay mindful on calls—stick to the facts and avoid speculation.
7. Playing “Medical Only” Regulation Games
In many states, minor crashes allow you to file a quick “medical only” claim for small bills. Insurers love this. Once you file, they’ll fight to keep it limited even if your injuries end up being serious. It’s a way to control costs—and keep full claims out of the picture.
8. Using “Surveillance” as Deception
Sometimes insurers hire investigators to film or follow accident victims. They’ll look for moments where you may appear fine—walking your dog, carrying groceries—and use that as proof you weren’t significantly injured. It’s misleading. One good day doesn’t mean you’re fully recovered.
9. Insist on Written Communication
If you speak only by phone, there’s little proof of what was said. Written correspondence, on the other hand, lays a record. Request that all serious communications arrive via email or mail. This backs your memory and limits surprises in coverage negotiations.
10. Expecting You to Underestimate Future Needs
After an injury, follow-up treatments or rehab costs might appear later. Insurers want to settle quickly—to cap their expenses and avoid long-term pain-and-suffering claims. Make sure your claim reflects not just today’s costs but tomorrow’s too.
Quick Recap: What to Watch For
Delayed responses or endless demands
Lowball first offers
Misplaced blame or overstated fault
Legal fine print used against you
Adjuster tactics that lead to frustration
Recorded conversations turned into evidence
Medical-only claims that don’t fit your situation
Surveillance footage used misleadingly
Phone-only communication (no written paper trail)
Future cost underestimations
How Daniel Sagiv Law Group, P.A. Helps You Level the Field
We review your case closely to spot unfair delays or denials.
We go through the policy line by line, so vague wording works for you—not against you.
We handle adjusters and insurers directly, so you don’t have to deal with the frustration.
We build your claim with full documentation, including future care needs.
We protect your words, ensuring your conversations don’t get twisted.
We push back firmly—yet professionally, advocating for what you truly deserve.
Our goal isn’t to make fast deals. It’s to make fair ones.
Final Thoughts
Insurance companies know their numbers—they know the potential costs and the value of cases like yours. That’s why they use these hidden tactics. You don’t have to fall into their trap. Stay informed and insist on your rights.
Dealing with a denied or underpaid claim? You don’t have to go at it alone. With experience, skill, and straightforward guidance, Daniel Sagiv Law Group, P.A. can help you push back and pursue the fair recovery you deserve.
If your insurer is dragging their feet, low-balling your claim, or using any of these tricks, reach out today. We’re ready to roll up our sleeves for you.
Ready to fight back? Visit Daniel Sagiv Law Group, P.A. at danielsagivlaw.com or give us a call. We’re here to make sure the insurance company does right by you—not just by telling you how—they’ll deliver it.
