Beware of These 10 Common Workers’ Comp Adjuster Tricks in Florida

If you’ve been injured on the job in Florida, you’re likely navigating the complex and often confusing world of workers’ compensation. While the system is designed to protect injured employees, insurance companies and their adjusters frequently employ tactics to deny, delay, or minimize valid claims.

This blog exposes 10 of the most common workers’ comp adjuster tricks  — arming you with the knowledge to spot them and take action to protect your rights.

1. Ask You for a Recorded Statement After the Incident

One of the first tricks workers’ comp adjusters will often try is to request a recorded statement from you shortly after your injury occurs. Their goal is to get you to provide information that can later be used against your claim. It’s crucial to remember that you are not required to give a recorded statement, and it’s generally advisable to politely decline until you’ve had the opportunity to consult a Florida workers’ comp lawyer.

2. Pretend They’re on Your Side

Adjusters may also attempt to cultivate a false sense of friendliness, making you feel like they’re on your side and only want to help. Don’t be fooled — their job is to protect the insurance company’s bottom line, not your best interests. Stay vigilant, and avoid sharing any more information than is absolutely necessary.

3. Offer Low Settlements

It’s common for workers’ comp adjusters to present you with a low-ball settlement offer, hoping you’ll be tempted to take the money and avoid the hassle of fighting the claim. Resist this tactic. The initial offer is rarely sufficient to cover the full extent of your medical expenses and lost wages. Make sure you consult experienced workman’s comp lawyers in Florida before accepting any settlement.

4. Pressure You to Sign a Settlement Release Form

Adjusters may try to pressure you into quickly signing a settlement release form, which could waive your right to seek additional benefits in the future. Don’t feel rushed, and be extremely cautious about signing any documents. Take the time to have a qualified Florida workers’ comp lawyer review them to ensure your rights and interests are protected.

5. Hire a Private Investigator to Follow You

Workers’ comp adjusters may go so far as to hire private investigators to spy on you, hoping to catch you engaging in activities that could be used to discredit your claim. Be aware of this tactic and always be mindful of your actions, even when you’re away from work.

6. Use Your Social Media Posts Against You

Adjusters will often scour your social media profiles, looking for any posts or images that could suggest you’re more active or able-bodied than your claim indicates. Refrain from sharing details about your injury or recovery process on social media, as this information can be used to undermine your case.

7. Ask You to Sign Medical Authorization Forms

Adjusters may request that you sign broad medical authorization forms, giving them unfettered access to your entire medical history. Be cautious about signing anything without first consulting a Florida workers’ comp lawyer, who can help ensure the release is limited in scope and protects your privacy.

8. Downplay the Severity of Your Injuries and Question Your Medical Treatment

Adjusters may also attempt to minimize the severity of your injuries and challenge the necessity of your medical treatment. Don’t let them intimidate you; insist on receiving the care your doctors have recommended. By working closely with workman’s comp lawyers in Florida, you can properly document the full extent of your injuries and the treatment required for a full recovery.

9. Pressure You to Return to Work Before Recovery

Workers’ comp adjusters will sometimes pressure you to return to work before your doctor has cleared you, even if that means taking on light-duty or modified tasks. Stand firm and do not comply with any directives that have not been authorized by your doctor. Returning to work prematurely could jeopardize your health or the integrity of your claim.

10. Discourage You From Hiring a Lawyer

It’s a dirty trick, but workers’ comp adjusters will often try to convince you that you don’t need legal representation, by suggesting that it is impractical and will only result in delays and complications. Don’t fall for this tactic. Consulting a Florida workers’ comp lawyer is one of the best ways to protect your rights and maximize your benefits.

Injured at Work? Florida Workers’ Comp Lawyer, David M. Benenfeld, Is Ready to Help

Have you been searching online for “workers’ comp attorneys near me?”

At the Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A. in Sunrise, Florida, we help injured individuals in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and surrounding areas including the tri-county area. If you’ve been injured, you’re not alone. Our dedicated legal team is here to help you every step of the way. With our support, you can recover from your work-related injury with peace of mind. Contact us now at (954) 677-0155(954) 677-0155 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation.

At the Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, If You’ve Been Hurt – We Can Help!

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The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

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Sunrise, FL 33351
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