How Insurance Companies Handle Holiday Accident Claims

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The holidays bring busy Louisiana roads, added stress, and more accidents. However, while insurance companies seem supportive at first, they often use this chaotic season to limit what they pay. As a result, many injured drivers receive far less than they deserve. Here’s what truly happens behind the scenes—and what insurers rarely admit.

1. They Count on You Being Distracted

During the holidays, accident claims surge. Consequently, adjusters may slow-walk your case, delay returning calls, and request unnecessary paperwork. Ultimately, they hope you’ll settle quickly simply to avoid the hassle.

2. They Scrutinize Your Actions More Closely

Holiday travel often involves alcohol, fatigue, and heavy traffic. Therefore, insurers look for any small detail to shift blame onto you—even when the other driver clearly caused the crash. In many cases, they argue fault is “uncertain” to reduce your payout.

3. They Downplay Common Holiday Accidents

Rear-end collisions, parking-lot crashes, and rideshare incidents spike in November and December. Nevertheless, insurers treat these as “minor,” even though they can lead to significant injuries, lost wages, and long-term medical care. Moreover, they often use the volume of holiday claims as an excuse to minimize yours.

4. They Push Fast, Low Settlements

Adjusters frequently call with quick offers right after the accident. However, these early settlements are designed to save the insurer money. In fact, they hope you’ll accept before delayed injuries—like whiplash or concussions—are diagnosed. Instead, you should wait until you fully understand your medical needs.

5. They Don’t Mention All Available Coverage

Most policies include UM/UIM, MedPay, rental reimbursement, and other layers of protection. Yet, insurers rarely explain these benefits because using them often increases what they must pay. Additionally, many people don’t know these coverages can apply even when another driver is at fault.

6. They Use Your Words Against You

After a stressful holiday accident, it’s natural to say things like “I’m fine” or “I didn’t see the other car.” Unfortunately, adjusters record these comments and may twist them to weaken your claim. Consequently, your honest, unfiltered reactions can become ammunition against you.

7. They Hope You Don’t Hire a Lawyer

Insurance companies know claim values usually increase when an attorney gets involved. Therefore, they often act friendly at first to discourage you from. Ultimately, they save money when you handle everything alone—while you risk leaving compensation on the table.

What to Do After a Holiday Accident

To protect your health and your claim:

Fisher Injury Lawyers Can Help

Holiday accidents can upend your life. Therefore, you deserve full and fair compensation—not holiday shortcuts or lowball offers. With our team on your side, you can focus on healing while we handle the insurance company.

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Bryan Fisher Lead Trial Attorney at Fisher Injury Lawyers

Decades of personal injury experience fighting for our clients.

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