This analogy came about through my initial consultations with new clients and their constant reference to the at fault party’s insurance company making statements similar to this:
Well the insurance company adjuster for the negligent party said I could not do this or go get treatment for my injuries because they would not pay.
The game I refer to as the "Insurance Game" befuddles many but the dynamics are the same. You have one side playing offense and another side playing defense. Why are you going to listen to a representative of an insurance company that eventually will have to pay you money based upon many factors but the largest factor being the amount of medical treatment and bills you have incurred since the negligent act that caused your injury?
Instead of seeking out a free initial consultation with a personal injury attorney you will listen to the advice of the negligent party’s insurance company that is trying to minimize the amount of money paid out on your claim. Makes no sense. I don’t care that I am jaded by being a personal injury attorney but I follow my own advice when it comes to real estate closings, I know nothing about. I seek assistance from a real estate attorney. I don’t trust that the landowner I am purchasing from will take care of my best interest. I trust the attorney I am paying will protect my interest.
If you are playing a game against the opposing team, would you trust the advice of the opposing coach on how to best beat them? Sure the insurance company adjuster will be very kind and pleasant on the phone initially. However, their intentions are not to provide you with the best result but for their result to be beneficial for their employer, the insurance company.
Remember, or re-read, Aesop’s fable about the Horse and Groom:
A GROOM used to spend whole days in curry-combing and rubbing down his Horse, but at the same time stole his oats, and sold them for his own profit. "Alas!" said the Horse, "if you really wish me to be in good condition, you should groom me less, and feed me more."
Don’t let the kind words and warm reassurances from the at fault insurance company "groom" you into believing your health, wealth, and welfare are at the forefront of their minds. Rather try and gain the substance that will get you better and protect you down the road.