When you’ve been injured in an accident in Port St. Lucie, your first point of contact with the insurance company might seem helpful or even sympathetic. But make no mistake—insurance adjusters work for the insurer, not for you. Their job is to protect the company’s bottom line, often by reducing or denying payouts to injury victims.
If you’re not prepared, you may fall victim to well-rehearsed tactics that make your claim seem less serious or not worth the compensation you truly deserve. This is why working with an experienced personal injury lawyer serving Port St. Lucie can make all the difference. Legal professionals understand the language, strategy, and pressure tactics adjusters use—and how to counter them effectively.
In this blog, we’ll break down the most common tactics insurance adjusters use during Port St. Lucie injury claims and how you can protect yourself and your financial future.
The Illusion of Friendliness
Many adjusters begin conversations in a warm and friendly tone. They might ask how you’re doing or offer to help expedite your claim. This is a psychological strategy. By creating a false sense of trust, they can encourage you to share information or agree to things that aren’t in your best interest.
They may also claim that hiring a lawyer will “delay your case” or “cost you more money in the long run.” These statements are designed to deter you from seeking professional legal guidance. In truth, injury victims represented by a personal injury lawyer serving Port St. Lucie typically recover significantly higher settlements than those who handle claims on their own.
Requesting a Recorded Statement
One of the first things an insurance adjuster might do is ask for a recorded statement. While this may sound harmless, it’s a tactic designed to lock you into statements that can later be used to discredit your claim.
For example, you might say you’re “feeling better,” which they could later argue means your injuries weren’t serious. Or you might unintentionally describe the accident in a way that suggests partial fault. Once recorded, your words can be taken out of context and used against you—even if you didn’t mean them that way.
The safest response? Politely decline until you’ve spoken with your attorney.
Quick Settlement Offers
Another common tactic is to offer a fast, lowball settlement. Adjusters know you’re under financial stress—especially if you’re facing medical bills, car repairs, or missed work. They might offer a sum that seems helpful in the moment but is far below the true value of your case.
This approach is strategic. Once you accept a settlement, you usually forfeit the right to pursue additional compensation later, even if your injuries worsen. That’s why it’s essential to understand the full scope of your damages—medical costs, future care, lost wages, pain and suffering—before accepting any offer.
Downplaying Your Injuries
Insurance companies often try to minimize the seriousness of your injuries. They may argue that your injuries were pre-existing, not caused by the accident, or are not as severe as you claim. They may even suggest that you’re exaggerating symptoms to get a bigger payout.
To counter this, it’s important to have thorough medical documentation. Seek treatment immediately after the accident, follow all medical advice, and keep detailed records of your symptoms, treatment, and how the injury affects your daily life.
Your attorney can also help you secure expert opinions or additional medical evaluations if your case requires further substantiation.
Dragging Out the Process
Delaying the claims process is a common tactic designed to wear you down. Adjusters might “misplace” documents, fail to return calls, or take excessive time to review your file. This can create financial pressure and push you to accept a smaller settlement just to end the process.
Don’t give in to the fatigue. A good injury lawyer can apply the appropriate pressure and ensure your case moves forward. They know the deadlines, escalation processes, and when to initiate litigation if negotiations stall.
Misrepresenting Policy Coverage
In some cases, an adjuster may claim that certain damages aren’t covered under the policy, even when they are. Or they may give vague or confusing answers about what compensation you’re entitled to receive. These misrepresentations are meant to limit your expectations—and your payout.
You have a right to understand the full scope of coverage available in your case, including liability coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and any personal injury protection (PIP) benefits you may be eligible to receive.
Don’t Let Adjusters Control the Outcome of Your Case
The aftermath of an accident is already overwhelming. Dealing with an adjuster who seems to be working against you only adds to the stress. But remember—insurance companies rely on you not knowing your rights.
By working with a skilled attorney who has experience in Port St. Lucie injury claims, you level the playing field. You gain an advocate who understands how to value your case accurately, negotiate confidently, and push back when insurers overstep.
If you’re navigating a personal injury claim and want experienced legal support that protects your interests, contact Frankl Kominsky Injury Lawyers. They have the experience and insight to guide you every step of the way.
About the Author
This article was crafted by a legal content expert with a background in personal injury law and insurance negotiation strategies. With deep knowledge of Florida’s legal landscape, they specialize in producing educational content that empowers accident victims to make informed decisions. They are not affiliated with Frankl Kominsky Injury Lawyers.
