Updated: January 2026
When you’re injured in an accident and pursuing compensation, an insurance company will almost always be involved.
While your attorney will handle most communication with the insurance company, it’s important to understand how to protect yourself.
Do not settle your injury claim too quickly. Insurance companies want to settle fast — often before you know the full extent of your injuries. However, injuries can worsen over time or could potentially lead to a long-term or permanent disability. Once you sign a release, the insurance company is no longer responsible for future medical bills or complications. If you settle without realizing the full extent of your injuries, you will be liable for expenses over and above.
Do not sign medical releases. Never sign medical authorizations sent by the insurance company. If you aren’t careful, these releases may give them access to your entire medical history, not just records related to your injury.
Be sure to send all correspondence to your attorney first. They will ensure only the medical records necessary to prove your claim are shared.
Do not accept the Adjuster’s valuation. An adjustor’s initial offer rarely reflects the true value of your injuries, lost wages, or long-term needs. They are trained to minimize payouts, keeping settlements as low as possible to save the company money.
Do not make claims without documentation. Every part of your claim must be supported by evidence. For example:
Documentation strengthens your case and prevents the insurance company from disputing your losses.
Be cautious when talking to the insurance company; what you say can hurt your case. Insurance companies typically want a recorded statement as soon as possible, sometimes before you even have legal representation.
The safest approach is simple: let your attorney handle all communication
The best course of action is to let your attorney do the talking for you.
Understanding how insurance companies operate is essential to protecting your rights and strengthening your personal injury claim.
Insurance adjusters are trained professionals hired by the insurance company to manage claims. Their responsibilities include:
What you need to realize is that the adjuster works for the insurance company, not for you. Their job is to settle a claim for as little as possible. A fair settlement is subjective; what you consider a fair settlement and what the adjuster considers “fair” are rarely the same.
Questions? Our knowledgeable staff is available at (877) 284-6600.
If your accident involves serious injuries or a fatality, your first step should be hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer who will:
Your attorney will ask you to provide documentation of things such as:
When you have suffered serious injuries in the Kansas City and surrounding area, the attorneys at Nash & Franciskato are ready to advocate for you. We will:
Contact us for a free, no-obligation review of your case at (877) 284-6600.
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Past results afford no guarantee of future results, and each case is different and is judged on its own merits. The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on January 31, 2019. It was reviewed, updated, and republished on January 14, 2025.
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