How to Deal with Insurance Companies After an Accident
Insurance companies employ sophisticated tactics to minimize your payout. Our comprehensive guides help you understand their strategies and protect your rights to fair compensation.
Important: Never give a recorded statement or sign any documents from an insurance company without consulting an attorney first.
Insurance Company Guides
Select an insurance company below to learn about their specific claim tactics, tips for dealing with them, and frequently asked questions.
State Farm
State Farm is the largest auto insurer in the United States. While they advertise being "like a good neighbor," their claims adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and protect company profits.
GEICO
GEICO, owned by Berkshire Hathaway, is known for competitive rates but has developed a reputation for aggressively fighting claims to maintain profitability.
Progressive
Progressive is the third-largest auto insurer in America. Despite friendly advertising, they employ sophisticated tactics to minimize claim payments.
Allstate
Allstate's slogan claims "You're in Good Hands," but internal documents have revealed aggressive claim denial strategies designed to maximize profits at policyholders' expense.
Farmers
Farmers Insurance is a major insurer with a network of independent agents. While they promote personalized service, their claims department often uses standard tactics to minimize payouts.
Liberty Mutual
Liberty Mutual is one of the largest property and casualty insurers. They have faced criticism for claim handling practices that prioritize corporate profits.
Nationwide
Nationwide promotes being "on your side," but like other major insurers, they employ strategies to minimize claim payouts and protect their bottom line.
USAA
USAA serves military members and their families. While they have better customer satisfaction ratings, they still employ tactics to minimize payouts on claims against their insureds.
Travelers
Travelers is a major commercial and personal lines insurer. They are known for thorough investigations and aggressive defense of claims.
American Family
American Family Insurance operates primarily in the Midwest but has expanded nationwide. They use similar claim minimization tactics as other major insurers.
Mercury
Mercury Insurance is a major California-based insurer known for competitive rates. However, their claims handling has faced criticism from policyholders and claimants.
AAA
AAA Insurance, offered through regional Auto Clubs, is known for good customer service but still employs standard industry tactics to minimize claim payouts.
Wawanesa
Wawanesa is a Canadian insurer with a significant presence in California. While they have a good reputation, they still work to minimize claim costs.
Infinity
Infinity Insurance, now part of Kemper, focuses on non-standard auto insurance. They often insure higher-risk drivers and handle claims accordingly.
Bristol West
Bristol West, owned by Farmers Insurance, provides non-standard auto insurance. They often deal with claims involving minimally insured drivers.
General Tips for All Insurance Claims
Do This
- • Document everything with photos and notes
- • Get medical attention immediately
- • Keep copies of all correspondence
- • Follow your doctor's treatment plan
- • Consult an attorney before settling
Avoid This
- • Giving recorded statements without legal advice
- • Accepting the first settlement offer
- • Signing medical release authorizations
- • Posting about your accident on social media
- • Admitting any fault at the scene
Need Help with Your Insurance Claim?
Our experienced personal injury attorneys have dealt with all major insurance companies and know their tactics. Get a free consultation to discuss your case.
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