Many insurance companies today use a computer software program called Colossus to evaluate personal injury claims. How Colossus works is intentionally kept secret—neither the insurance companies nor the software's developer will disclose how baseline values are determined.

What Is Colossus?  

Colossus is a claims evaluation database that analyzes cases based on data input by the insurance adjuster. As a result, the accuracy and fairness of your case valuation depend heavily on what information the adjuster chooses to enter.

Insurance companies often use Colossus to:

• Plug in variables such as damage to your vehicle, estimated treatment costs, and treatment duration.

• Assign a value to your claim based on these “objective” factors.

However, Colossus does not factor in many critical elements that could significantly impact a jury's decision, such as:

• The severity and duration of your pain and suffering

• Your inability to perform normal activities

• Emotional distress and trauma

• Loss of enjoyment of life or intimacy (loss of consortium)

• Impact on your career and earning ability

The Real Problem with Colossus  

Though insurance companies claim Colossus is just a “starting point” for claim evaluations, the reality is that adjusters are often bound by the settlement range Colossus produces, with little room to deviate.

According to the Computer Sciences Corporation, Colossus is used by 13 of the top 20 U.S. property and casualty insurers. Former industry insiders estimate that insurers are saving 15% to 30% on claims payouts by using Colossus.

How to Maximize Your Claim Value When Colossus Is Involved  

To ensure your case is valued properly by an adjuster using Colossus, consider these critical steps:

1. Document Everything Thoroughly in Medical Records

• Communicate all injuries, pain, emotional issues, lost work time, and lifestyle impacts to your doctor.

• Be specific—the more detailed your medical records, the better.

2. Avoid Gaps in Treatment

• Regular and consistent treatment increases the value of your case.

• If there are gaps, ensure you can document the reasons.

3. Seek Doctor Referrals for Alternative Treatments

• Colossus disfavors treatments like chiropractic care or acupuncture unless they are referred by a physician.

4. Understand How Duration of Treatment Affects Value

• Colossus values care in time ranges (e.g., 1–3 months, 3–6 months).

• For example:

• First 3 months: PT may be valued at $100 per visit

• Fourth month: PT may drop to $40 per visit

• Sixth month: Value may fall to $10 per visit

• Visiting a medical doctor between treatment windows may reset the valuation for your therapy.

5. Wear a Seat Belt

• If you were wearing a seat belt during your motor vehicle accident, be sure to tell your doctor, so it appears in your records—it may increase your claim's value.

Protect Yourself  

Your Connecticut personal injury case may be evaluated by a computer—not a human being. That's why it's essential to work with an experienced attorney who knows how to navigate the Colossus system and ensure that all appropriate information is documented.

Let Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP guide you through this complicated process. Our team will help maximize the value of your claim, relieve the stress of dealing with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at 203-438-7450 for a free consultation, or visit www.hcwlaw.com to download one of our free legal books and get the information you need to protect your case.