What if insurers’ brands resembled their business practices?

My son has a gecko. She’s cute. She walks around on his shoulders, shaking her tail before she pounces on her food (whether that’s a cricket or a freeze-dried snack). Ya know what else is cute? The GEICO Insurance gecko. 

Insurance companies use logos, characters, and mascots that evoke a sense of trust in their potential clients. These could be helping hands, an umbrella to protect you from the rough weather, or a cute little gecko with an endearing accent. However, if you have ever had to deal with an insurance adjuster after a motor vehicle accident, the words “cute,” “help,” and “trust” are probably not words you’d use to describe the experience. 

Read on to learn about the gap between insurance companies’ friendly branding and the challenging reality of dealing with insurance adjusters, who often prioritize profit over fair settlements. You’ll also get tips on seeking legal assistance to protect your rights and secure fair compensation.

The reality behind insurance adjusters

After an insurance company refuses to pay for the treatment several doctors have said you need, or they tell you your vehicle is worth far less than market value, or they try to get you to accept a lowball offer using any number of underhanded tactics, you might feel like that Gecko should look a little different. 

Let me give you a couple of examples. 

Would you trust this guy?

What about this gentleman?

These two aren’t there to help. They are in the insurance business to make money, period. It’s not necessarily bad; after all, businesses aren’t in business to lose money. But wouldn’t it be nice to know what you’re getting into? Whether you’re talking to a wolf in a gecko suit? You might choose your words differently or even want someone familiar with the insurance game to speak to the wolf for you (maybe someone like a personal injury or workers’ comp lawyer).

Tips for dealing with insurance adjusters

If you do tangle with these companies on your own, here are some helpful tips to remember:

• It’s essential to be cautious when communicating with insurance adjusters and to avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Don’t think they’re on your side just because they’ve said something sympathetic.
• Insurance companies frequently downplay non-economic damages to undervalue them during settlement negotiations. Therefore, it is crucial to demand compensation for all specific damages to ensure a fair settlement.
• Be highly suspicious of any premature attempts to settle your claim, especially before you have completed your medical treatment. It is impossible to assess your damages accurately without knowing the full extent of your injuries.

Why you need a personal injury attorney in Washington 

Seeking legal guidance can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. If you’re feeling a little uneasy about the real intentions of the claim adjuster on the other end of the phone call, hang up and call Carlisle + Byers for a free legal consultation. We’re good at seeing through the cute disguises.