When you get hurt at work, you expect workers’ compensation to help cover your medical bills and lost wages. But insurance adjusters, the people who handle your claim, often try to pay you less or deny your claim altogether. They work for the insurance company, not for you. This blog post explains eight common tricks adjusters use to reduce your benefits and how you can protect yourself. With a little knowledge and caution, you can make sure you get the fair compensation you deserve after a workplace injury.
They Act Like Your Friend
Adjusters might seem kind and caring when they call you. They may ask how you’re feeling or say they want to help. But this friendliness is often a trick. They want you to trust them so you’ll share details that could hurt your claim. For example, if you say you’re “feeling okay” during a casual chat, they might use that to argue your injury isn’t serious. Be careful what you say. Stick to the facts and avoid casual conversations. It’s best to let a workers’ comp lawyer handle talks with the adjuster to keep your claim safe.
They Ask for a Recorded Statement
An adjuster might ask you to give a recorded statement about your injury. They may say it’s just to “clear things up.” But recorded statements can be dangerous. Adjusters often ask tricky questions to get you to say something that makes your injury seem less severe or not work-related. These statements can be used to deny your benefits. You don’t have to agree to a recorded statement. If an adjuster asks for one, talk to a lawyer first. They can guide you on what to say or if you should say anything at all.
They Search Your Medical Records
Adjusters often ask for access to your medical records. They may say it’s to verify your injury. But sometimes they’re looking for unrelated health issues, like an old back problem, to claim your injury wasn’t caused by work. This is called a preexisting condition argument. To protect yourself, only share medical records related to your current injury. Don’t sign a form that gives them full access to your entire medical history. A lawyer can help you limit what the adjuster sees so they can’t twist your records against you.
They Push for a Low Settlement
After an injury, you might be struggling with bills and lost wages. Adjusters know this and may offer you a quick settlement. These offers are often much lower than what you deserve. A low settlement might cover some medical bills but not future treatments or long-term lost income. Don’t accept the first offer without thinking it through. Talk to a lawyer who can figure out the true value of your claim, including future costs. They can negotiate with the adjuster to get you a fair amount.
They Send You to Their Doctor
Adjusters might ask you to see a doctor for an “independent medical exam” (IME). But these doctors are often chosen by the insurance company and may not be truly independent. They might downplay your injury or say it’s not related to work. This can lead to your benefits being reduced or stopped. If you’re asked to go to an IME, talk to your lawyer first. They can explain your rights and make sure the exam is fair. You can also stick with your own doctor’s treatment plan to support your claim.
They Delay or Deny Your Claim
Some adjusters delay your claim by asking for more paperwork or taking a long time to respond. Others might deny your claim outright, saying there’s not enough proof your injury happened at work. These delays and denials can put you under financial stress, making you more likely to accept a low offer or give up. Don’t let them wear you down. Keep track of all your medical records, work injury reports, and talks with the adjuster. A lawyer can push back against unfair denials and speed up the process.
They Watch You With Surveillance
Adjusters sometimes hire private investigators to follow you or check your social media. They’re looking for proof that you’re not as injured as you claim. For example, if you post a photo of yourself at a family party, they might argue you’re faking your injury. Even innocent activities can be twisted to hurt your claim. Be careful what you do in public and what you post online. Avoid sharing details about your injury or activities on social media. A lawyer can help you handle any surveillance evidence the adjuster tries to use.
They Claim You’re Exaggerating
If you describe your pain or limitations, adjusters might accuse you of exaggerating to get more benefits. They could use this to question your honesty and reduce your claim. Always be truthful about your symptoms. Don’t overstate your pain, but don’t downplay it either. Stick to what your doctor says and keep records of your medical visits. If an adjuster challenges your honesty, a lawyer can defend your credibility with medical evidence and other proof.
Call Hinden & Breslavsky for Help Today
Going through a workers’ comp claim can feel overwhelming, especially when adjusters use tricks to reduce your benefits. You don’t have to face this alone. The top workers’ compensation lawyers at Hinden & Breslavsky in Los Angeles can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (323) 954-1800 for a free consultation. Let us handle the adjusters so you can focus on healing and getting back to your life.