Insurance Claims
Top 3 Lies the Insurance Company Will Tell You After An Accident
How to spot the tactics insurance companies use to reduce your claim — from Koenigsberg & Associates Law Offices.
June 22, 2026
After a car accident, insurance companies often seem helpful, but their primary goal is to minimize payouts. In reality, many adjusters use misleading tactics to reduce or deny claims. At Koenigsberg & Associates Law Offices, we’ve seen countless New York City clients misled by insurers — and we’re here to protect you from these tactics.
Here are the top three lies insurance companies may tell you after an accident — and how Koenigsberg & Associates can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
The Three Lies
What insurers say — and what’s really true
Adjusters are trained to resolve claims at the lowest possible cost. The lines below may sound reasonable in the moment — but each one is built to protect the insurer’s bottom line, not yours.
Lie #1
“You don’t need a lawyer to settle this claim.”
Why this lie works
Unrepresented claimants rarely know the true value of their case — and are far more likely to accept a lowball settlement.
The reality
New York’s No-Fault, comparative-negligence, and personal-injury rules are complex. Without an advocate, you may miss compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, and long-term medical expenses.
Lie #2
“This is the best offer you’ll get.”
Why this lie works
Initial offers are designed to look final. In reality, they are almost always far below the true value of a serious-injury claim.
The reality
Insurers know that medical bills and lost wages create pressure to settle. Presenting a number as “non-negotiable” is a tactic — not a fact about what your case is worth.
Lie #3
“Your injuries aren’t that serious.”
Why this lie works
Adjusters downplay injuries to justify lower payouts — especially soft-tissue damage, whiplash, and conditions with delayed symptoms.
The reality
Many serious injuries take time to surface and require ongoing care. A thorough medical record — supported by medical experts — is essential to capture the full impact.
Lie #1, In Depth
“You don’t need a lawyer to settle this claim.”
Insurance adjusters often tell claimants they don’t need a lawyer, implying that the claims process is simple and straightforward. They may even say that hiring a lawyer could “complicate” things or delay your payout. The reality is that insurance companies prefer claimants to go unrepresented — because they’re less likely to understand the true value of their claim and more likely to accept a low settlement offer.
In New York, where laws surrounding car accidents, No-Fault insurance, and personal injury can be complex, having a lawyer is crucial. Adjusters might say, “We’ll take care of you,” or “You’re in good hands,” but without an advocate like Koenigsberg & Associates, you may miss out on compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, and long-term medical expenses.
Our attorneys help clients understand the full scope of their damages and work tirelessly to maximize their settlement. We negotiate on your behalf, ensuring that insurance companies don’t take advantage of you.
How We Level the Playing Field
You don’t have to face the insurer alone.
We know the tactics insurers use and handle the complex aspects of your case — from gathering evidence to negotiating a fair settlement — so you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
Lie #2, In Depth
“This is the best offer you’ll get.”
Insurance companies often make low initial settlement offers, hoping claimants will accept quickly. If you hesitate or question the amount, they might say, “This is the best offer you’ll get” or “There’s no room for negotiation.” This is rarely true. Initial offers are typically far below the actual value of a claim, especially in cases involving serious injuries or long-term recovery needs.
Insurance companies want you to believe that they are offering a fair deal, even when they’re not. They know that many claimants — especially those dealing with medical bills or lost wages — may be eager for a quick payout. Accepting the first offer could mean leaving thousands of dollars on the table. In New York, where accident-related expenses can be high, this tactic can result in significant financial loss for victims.
Our attorneys analyze every aspect of your case — including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future financial needs — to ensure that any offer reflects the full extent of your damages. If the insurer refuses to negotiate, we’re prepared to take your case to court.
The “quick close”
“Let’s get this settled quickly” is designed to lock in a number before you understand the full extent of your injuries or future medical needs.
The friendly tone
Adjusters are trained to sound sympathetic and casual. The conversation is part of a strategy — not a courtesy.
Policy-language fog
Complex policy citations and references to state law are often used to make a low offer feel non-negotiable. Verify everything.
“We don’t want to drag this out”
Pressure to wrap things up before treatment is complete almost always benefits the insurer, not the claimant.
Records cherry-picking
Adjusters may quote select pieces of your medical record to argue that your injuries aren’t severe — while ignoring the rest.
Leading questions
Questions designed to get you to speculate about fault or downplay your symptoms can later be used to reduce your recovery.
Lie #3, In Depth
“Your injuries aren’t that serious.”
Insurance adjusters may downplay the severity of your injuries, claiming that your medical expenses or treatments aren’t necessary. They might say, “We reviewed your medical records, and it looks like you’re not as seriously injured as you think.” This is often a tactic to reduce the amount they have to pay, by arguing that your injuries don’t justify a higher settlement.
Many injuries — such as soft tissue damage or whiplash — may not be immediately visible but can lead to long-term complications. Some require ongoing care, rehabilitation, or result in chronic pain that impacts your quality of life. Koenigsberg & Associates understands the potential for delayed symptoms and long-term effects. We work with medical professionals to document your injuries thoroughly, ensuring all medical needs — both immediate and future — are accounted for in your claim.
Why This Lie Works
Many claimants assume the insurer’s medical read is accurate.
Adjusters leverage that trust by downplaying injuries and pressuring victims to accept lower settlements. Our firm works closely with medical experts to provide detailed documentation of your injuries and anticipated future care, so insurers cannot ignore or undervalue your medical conditions.
Understanding Adjuster Tactics
How adjusters work to reduce your claim
Insurance adjusters are highly trained professionals who use specific tactics to reduce claims. They may act friendly — even sympathetic — to gain your trust, but their loyalty is to the insurer. We’ve seen these tactics used on New York City residents time and time again — and we know how to counter them.
-
We know the playbook
We’ve handled countless claims against the same insurers and know the tactics adjusters use to chip away at value.
-
We value the full claim
Medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future financial needs — every category is accounted for.
-
We handle every conversation
All adjuster contact is routed through our office, so nothing you say can be twisted to weaken your case.
-
We’re prepared to litigate
If the insurer refuses to negotiate in good faith, we’re ready to take your case to court — and they know it.
How We Protect Your Rights
Koenigsberg & Associates stands by your side
Our firm has been representing New York City accident victims for years. When you work with us, we take charge of every aspect of your case — from gathering evidence to dealing with adjusters, negotiating a fair settlement, and, if necessary, litigating in court.
Our attorneys provide personalized guidance tailored to your unique situation, keeping you informed of your rights and options every step of the way. We understand the pressures accident victims face and are committed to making the claims process as stress-free as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dealing with insurers: your questions answered
What should I do if the insurance adjuster contacts me directly?
Politely inform the adjuster that you are working with an attorney and direct them to Koenigsberg & Associates. Our team will handle all communications, ensuring nothing you say can be used to weaken your claim.
How long do I have to respond to a settlement offer?
You generally have time to review a settlement offer, especially if you’re working with an attorney. We recommend consulting Koenigsberg & Associates before accepting any offer to ensure it accurately reflects your damages and future needs.
What if I already accepted a low settlement?
Once you accept a settlement, it is typically final. However, if you believe you were misled or pressured into accepting an unfair amount, contact Koenigsberg & Associates to discuss possible options — we may be able to assist with further legal remedies.
We’re Here to Fight
Don’t let insurance tactics keep you from the compensation you deserve.
The insurance company’s goal is to pay out as little as possible — often at your expense. By recognizing these common lies and partnering with a skilled attorney, you can protect your rights and improve your chances of a fair settlement. Contact Koenigsberg & Associates today at (718) 336-2000 to schedule your free consultation.