What do insurance adjusters look for in a claim?

Insurance adjusters evaluate claims looking for ways to minimize what they pay. They assess: liability and whether their insured was actually at fault or whether they can argue you share blame; gaps in medical treatment that suggest injuries aren't serious; pre-existing conditions they can blame for your symptoms; inconsistencies in your account of the accident or injuries; social media posts that contradict your claimed injuries; whether you're represented since unrepresented claimants typically accept lower settlements; and your attorney's reputation, specifically whether they actually try cases. For severe injury claims worth significant money, adjusters are especially aggressive. They know the company's exposure is high, and they'll look for any reason to reduce the payout. Having an attorney with a track record of trying catastrophic injury cases, and winning, changes how adjusters approach your claim. Understanding what adjusters look for helps you avoid common pitfalls that can reduce your claim's value.