Insurance adjusters handle claims for a living, and they use a well-practiced playbook to reduce what they pay. None of it is personal — it’s their job. But knowing the tactics helps you protect your claim. Here are the most common insurance adjuster tactics in truck accident cases, and how to counter them.
The adjuster’s real job
An adjuster’s role is to manage the insurer’s exposure — to settle claims for as little as possible. A friendly, sympathetic manner is often part of the approach, because it lowers your guard. Understanding this from the start changes how you interact with them.
Tactic 1: Fast, friendly contact
Adjusters often reach out within hours or days, sounding helpful and eager to “resolve things.” The speed is intentional — they want to engage you before you understand your rights or talk to a lawyer. Be polite, but say little, and refer them to your attorney.
Tactic 2: The recorded statement
They’ll ask for a recorded statement, framed as routine. In reality, it’s a chance to lock in your words and find inconsistencies or admissions to use later. You can decline this with the at-fault insurer.
Tactic 3: The quick lowball offer
An early settlement offer is designed to get you to sign a release before you know your injuries’ full extent. Once you accept, the claim is closed forever.
Tactic 4: Delay and stonewalling
If a fast settlement doesn’t work, some adjusters switch to delay — slow responses, repeated requests for documents, and silence — betting that financial pressure will make you accept less. An attorney keeps the case moving and recognizes stalling for what it is.
Tactic 5: Disputing or minimizing your injuries
Adjusters look for any reason to argue you weren’t badly hurt — a gap in treatment, a missed appointment, or a note that you told someone you felt “fine.” Consistent medical care and honest reporting are your best defense.
Tactic 6: Shifting blame onto you
Because Michigan reduces your recovery by your share of fault — and bars non-economic damages if you’re more than 50% at fault — adjusters work hard to pin blame on you. Strong evidence of the truck driver’s fault, like the black-box data and driver logs, counters this.
Tactic 7: Broad medical authorizations
They may ask you to sign a form releasing your entire medical history — then dig for any pre-existing condition to blame for your injuries. You don’t have to hand over unlimited access; a lawyer provides only what’s appropriate.
Tactic 8: Surveillance and social media
Adjusters review claimants’ social media and sometimes conduct surveillance, hunting for anything that seems to contradict your injuries — a photo, a check-in, an activity taken out of context. Be careful what you post, and assume they’re watching.
Tactic 9: Posing as your advisor
Some adjusters offer “advice” about your claim or discourage you from hiring a lawyer, suggesting it’s unnecessary or will just cost you. Remember whose interests they serve. See why you need a lawyer.
How to protect yourself
- Be brief and polite; don’t give recorded statements or speculate.
- Follow your treatment plan and keep records.
- Don’t sign broad authorizations or accept quick offers.
- Stay off social media about the crash.
- Let a lawyer handle communication — see dealing with the insurance company.
How a lawyer neutralizes these tactics
Once you’re represented, the adjuster deals with your lawyer, not you — ending the pressure and the traps. Your lawyer counters each tactic with evidence, proper documentation, and the credible threat of trial. See how a lawyer helps.
Frequently asked questions
Are adjusters allowed to do this? Most of these tactics are legal claim-handling strategies — which is why awareness matters.
Should I be rude to the adjuster? No — just be brief, avoid recorded statements, and refer them to your lawyer.
Can they really use my social media? Yes — assume anything public may be used.
Talk to a Michigan truck accident lawyer
Don’t face the adjusters’ playbook alone. The call is free, the consultation is confidential, and you pay nothing unless we win. Call 1-800-TRUCK-CRASH or request a free case review.
This article is general information about Michigan law, not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a licensed Michigan attorney about your case.