After a crash, many people in New Haven expect insurance companies to help them recover fairly. Unfortunately, that is not how the process often works. Insurance companies focus on saving money, not protecting injured people. They use clever methods to reduce payouts and delay compensation, hoping you’ll give up or settle for less than you deserve. We will explain five common tactics to watch out for and how to respond.
Before signing any forms or speaking with an adjuster, consider consulting with a New Haven personal injury attorney who can handle the process for you and fight for the best outcome.
1. Quick Lowball Offers
One of the oldest tricks in the insurance book is the quick cash offer. An adjuster may call within days of the accident, offering a settlement that sounds overly generous and the answer to your financial woes. But that first offer rarely covers anything more than the most basic bills. At that early stage, you might not know the full extent of your injuries or how long you’ll need treatment.
Many victims later discover they need months of physical therapy or surgery long after the check is cashed. Once you accept that offer, your case is closed forever. There is no going back for more money. Always ask for a full medical evaluation and speak with an attorney before you sign anything. A lawyer can calculate the long-term value of your claim so you don’t get stuck paying the price later.
2. Requests That Trap You
Insurers may sound polite when they ask for statements or paperwork, but their real goal is to find reasons to weaken your case. They may say they need “routine information,” but recorded statements often become tools to twist your words. Even innocent remarks like “I’m feeling better” can be used to argue you weren’t seriously hurt.
Insurance companies may also request access to your entire medical history to search for old injuries they can blame instead of the accident. Protect yourself by setting clear limits on what you provide.
- Never agree to a recorded statement without legal advice.
- Only allow access to medical records related to your injury.
- Keep written copies of all communication.
3. Blaming You for the Crash
Another common strategy is to argue that the accident was partly your fault. Even if the other driver clearly caused the collision, insurers often look for ways to reduce what they owe by shifting part of the blame to you. They might claim you were speeding, distracted, or not wearing a seatbelt.
In Connecticut, the comparative negligence rule applies. This means that your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% responsible, your total recovery will drop by that amount. If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages at all.
A New Haven personal injury attorney can investigate the crash, gather police reports, talk to witnesses, and use experts to prove who was truly responsible. With strong evidence, you can counter these blame-shifting tactics and protect your right to full payment.
4. Dragging Out the Process
Insurance companies know that time always works in their favor and will drag out the process as long as they can. They might delay returning calls, claim they’re still “reviewing documents,” or say a supervisor needs clarification or more information. These slowdowns can stretch for weeks or months, leaving victims stressed and financially trapped.
The longer you wait, the more likely you are to settle out of desperation. This is especially common when medical bills or rent are due. A lawyer can apply pressure by sending formal demand letters, setting firm deadlines, and preparing to take the case to court. When insurers see that you’re serious, they often move faster and offer higher settlements.
Delays also make evidence harder to find, as witnesses forget details and records get lost. Acting quickly ensures your lawyer can gather proof before it disappears.
5. Using Your Social Media Against You
Today’s insurance adjusters check Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for anything they can use against claimants. A single photo of you smiling at a family gathering could be twisted into proof that you’re not in pain. Even a comment like “I’m okay” can hurt your case.
It’s best to avoid posting anything related to your accident, recovery, or daily activities until your case ends. Ask friends and family not to tag you in pictures or discuss the crash online. A good attorney will guide you on how to protect your privacy and prevent your posts from being misinterpreted.
Connecticut Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Lawsuits
In Connecticut, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations. If you miss the deadline, your case will likely be dismissed, and you’ll lose your right to compensation forever.
However, there are exceptions. For instance, if the injury wasn’t discovered right away, the clock might start later. Claims involving government agencies may also have much shorter deadlines. Speaking with a New Haven personal injury attorney soon after your accident ensures that all paperwork is filed correctly and on time.
Take Action Today
Don’t let insurance companies use confusion or bullying tactics to take advantage of you. Your injuries, your time, and your peace of mind all matter. Speak with a New Haven personal injury attorney today to understand your rights and secure the fairest of compensation.
