In my line of work as a
Dallas car accident attorney, a phrase I hear far too often is, "They seemed so friendly... I thought I could trust them." Unfortunately, this phrase always follows an explanation of how an insurance adjuster tried to (and in some cases succeeded to) take advantage of an accident victim.
Whenever you are involved in a car accident in Dallas, chances are you will have to deal with an adjuster at some point in the claims process. Most of our firm's clients hire us after they have realized that the insurance adjuster they are dealing with is not treating them fairly, and or the adjuster is not willing to offer them a fair settlement. (Note: The earlier an attorney becomes involved in your case, the greater the chance of a high dollar settlement. See this article for more details) Often, the victim does not realize this is taking place until it is much too late because the insurance adjusters are so nice and friendly that the accident victim has no idea that they are being led into a trap.
THE INSURANCE ADJUSTER IS NOT YOUR FRIEND!!!
To really put this into perspective I want to share a true story with you about a woman who fell for the "We care about you" act. Her misplaced trust cost her potentially millions of dollars.
As that story clearly illustrates, insurance companies will often resort to unscrupulous methods to protect their bottom line. I find it fascinating that our society is so quick to see right through a sales pitch, or at least recognize it for what it is, yet they commonly fall for the sales pitch of an insurance adjuster.
If you are going to deal with an insurance company without an attorney, at the very least, you need to be aware that the vast majority of what they say to you and ask of you is more than protocol; rather, it is a well orchestrated pitch designed to lure you into a position where they can take advantage of your good nature. That effectively, IS, their business model.
I am a realistic attorney and I understand that some people would rather not hire an lawyer, and I understand that not every single
car accident in Dallas requires the expertise of an lawyer. But, I do think that everyone who is involved in a car accident in Dallas should, at the very least, be aware that the insurance adjuster is not really your friend and that all of their supposed interest in your well being is just part of the sales pitch. As a general rule of thumb, if they are treating you particularly well it's because they know they have some liability and they are trying to charm you into not suing them for big money while they attempt to pacify you with a small settlement.
(Note: to learn about other tricks used by insurance adjusters see this article)
You've really got nothing to lose by getting a second opinion. Just call 888-436-0288 to speak to one of our attorneys, and we will give you an honest appraisal of the situation as to whether or not the insurance companies are treating you fairly. Our
DFW metroplex car wreck attorneys are happy to answer any questions you may have.
-Written by Dallas, Texas Automobile Accident Attorney E. Michael Grossman