Calling any insurance company the “worst” is a matter of opinion. Still, Allstate has faced criticism over how it handles claims, including claims that some of its practices were meant to reduce payments to policyholders and accident victims.
So, is Allstate the worst insurance company for consumers? There is no clear ranking that answers that question. However, knowing how Allstate handles claims and where problems may arise can help consumers protect their interests.
Why Has Allstate Faced Criticism?
Some of the best-known criticism of Allstate involves changes to its claims process that began in the 1990s.
Allstate worked with consulting firm McKinsey & Company on a claims strategy that became linked to the phrase “good hands or boxing gloves.” Critics argued that the approach pushed some claimants to accept lower offers while making the process harder for those who refused.
This history does not mean every Allstate claim will be handled unfairly. However, consumers should review any settlement offer carefully before accepting it.
How Does Allstate Review an Injury Claim?
Allstate investigates an injury claim before deciding whether its insured is at fault and how much it may pay.
An adjuster may review:
- Police reports
- Photos and videos
- Medical records and bills
- Witness statements
- Vehicle damage
- Lost wage records
- Statements from the people involved
The insurer may also question whether the crash caused all of the claimed injuries or whether all medical care was needed.
Why Might Allstate Offer Less Than You Expect?
An insurance company may look for facts that reduce the amount it must pay under the policy.
For example, an adjuster may claim that:
- You helped cause the accident
- An injury existed before the crash
- Some treatment was not needed
- Your medical bills are too high
- Your injuries are less serious than claimed
- The policy does not provide enough coverage
A settlement offer may be lower than the amount you believe your claim is worth, so it is important to evaluate your losses before accepting an offer.
Should You Give Allstate a Recorded Statement?
If you file a claim against another person’s Allstate policy, an adjuster may ask for a recorded statement.
The questions may cover how the crash happened, your injuries, your medical care, and your health before the accident. Before agreeing, you should know why the statement is being requested and how it may be used.
The insurer may later compare your answers with medical records and other evidence. Differences between those accounts could be used to dispute your claim.
What if Allstate Blames You for the Accident?
Being partly at fault does not prevent you from recovering compensation under California law.
California follows pure comparative negligence. Your compensation can be reduced by your share of fault, but you may still recover damages even if you were mostly responsible.
For example, $100,000 in damages would be reduced to $80,000 if you were found 20% at fault. Photos, videos, witness statements, and police reports can help when fault is disputed.
What Should You Consider Before Accepting a Settlement?
Accepting a personal injury settlement usually requires signing a release that prevents you from seeking more money for the same claim.
Before accepting an offer, consider whether it covers:
- Current medical bills
- Future medical care
- Lost income
- Reduced ability to earn
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Other losses from the accident
This can be especially important if you are still receiving treatment. Once the claim is settled, you generally cannot seek more money if your injuries turn out to be worse than expected.
Contact the Santa Ana Personal Injury Attorneys at Robles Babaee, Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
There is no objective way to name Allstate the worst insurance company for consumers. However, insurance claims can become difficult when there are disputes over fault, injuries, treatment, or the value of your losses.
Robles Babaee, Personal Injury Lawyers can review your claim, handle communications with the insurance company, and help you evaluate any settlement offer you receive. Contact our Santa Ana personal injury lawyers today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.
We serve Cobb County. Visit our office located in Santa Ana, California.
Robles Babaee, Personal Injury Lawyers
1851 E 1st St, Suite 810, Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 263-3700