After a serious injury, you expect the insurance company to provide support when you need it most. Unfortunately, many injury victims in Kansas quickly learn that insurers are not on their side. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, and minimizing payouts is part of their strategy. Delays, denials, and underpayments are common tactics used to wear down claimants and avoid paying full compensation.
You’re not alone if you’re frustrated by the insurance claims process. At Martin Law Group, our Olathe personal injury attorneys have helped countless Kansans fight against unfair treatment from insurers. Below, we break down the most common tactics insurance companies use to delay or deny injury claims—and how to protect yourself with the right legal help.
Delaying the Process Until You Give Up
One of the most common strategies insurers use is delay. The longer they wait to respond, investigate, or pay, the more likely claimants will settle for less or walk away altogether.
Delays may include:
- Asking for duplicate paperwork.
- Failing to return calls or emails.
- Stalling medical reviews or investigations.
These tactics are designed to frustrate you and create financial pressure. However, Kansas law protects injury victims from unreasonable delays. You have the right to a prompt and fair evaluation of your claim.
Questioning the Severity of Your Injuries
Insurers often try to downplay the extent of your injuries, especially if you didn’t go to the ER immediately or didn’t follow up with treatment. They may argue that your injuries are pre-existing, not serious, or unrelated to the incident.
They might claim:
- “You didn’t need all this treatment.”
- “Your injuries aren’t as bad as you say.”
- “You’re exaggerating your pain.”
Don’t let them minimize what you’ve been through. Medical records, expert evaluations, and a strong legal advocate can help reinforce the legitimacy of your injuries.
Blaming You for the Accident
Kansas follows a modified comparative fault system, which means if you’re found partially at fault, your compensation can be reduced, or denied entirely if you’re more than 50% responsible.
Insurance companies know this and often try to shift the blame onto you to reduce their debt.
Watch for tactics like:
- Misrepresenting statements you gave.
- Misinterpreting accident reports.
- Suggesting that your behavior contributed to the incident.
A skilled personal injury attorney ensures your side of the story is presented and your rights are protected.
Making Lowball Settlement Offers
Sometimes insurers will make quick offers that seem helpful, but are far below the actual value of your claim. These offers are often made before the full extent of your injuries is known.
Accepting too soon can mean:
- Giving up the right to future compensation.
- Being stuck with uncovered medical bills.
- Missing out on damages for pain and suffering.
Before accepting any offer, speak with an experienced attorney who can calculate the full value of your case and negotiate on your behalf.
You Don’t Have to Fight the Insurance Company Alone
At Martin Law Group, LLC, we’ve seen every delay tactic and excuse in the book—and we know how to counter them. If you’ve been injured and feel the insurance company is stalling or undervaluing your claim, we’re here to help you push back. Contact our Kansas personal injury lawyers for a free consultation and let us fight to get you the compensation you deserve.