Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is never easy. Between managing your injuries, medical appointments, and financial worries, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. When the insurance company offers you a settlement, it might seem like a relief but accepting that offer too quickly can be a costly mistake.
Here’s why you should think twice before agreeing to the insurance company’s first offer.
Insurance companies are in the business of making money, not giving it away. When you file a claim, an adjuster will review the details and determine the amount they are willing to pay. However, it’s important to remember that the insurance adjuster’s job is to minimize payouts for the insurance company—meaning their initial offer is likely much lower than your claim.
The first offer is often designed to get you to settle quickly before fully understanding the extent of your injuries and damages. It does not reflect what you truly deserve.
After an accident, the insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. While they may seem helpful, their main responsibility is to protect the insurer’s bottom line. The insurance adjuster will attempt to get you to settle as soon as possible, often without fully considering all of your damages.
Even small statements or actions can impact your case, and the insurance company may use them against you to reduce your settlement.
The initial settlement offer is rarely in line with the true value of your claim. Insurers expect many individuals to accept the first offer out of frustration or desperation, but this is where you can easily be taken advantage of.
With the help of an experienced attorney, you can negotiate for a settlement that properly covers not only your medical expenses but also your lost wages, pain and suffering, and future treatment needs.
Recovery from a car accident takes time, and you might not fully realize the long-term impact on your health and finances. Injuries may require ongoing treatments such as physical therapy, surgery, or special medications—costs you might not be able to anticipate immediately after the accident.
If you accept the first offer, you could be left paying out-of-pocket for expenses that develop later. A skilled attorney can help ensure your settlement accounts for all potential future costs.
Insurance companies often focus on the tangible costs—medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages—but they don’t always consider the emotional and psychological toll an accident can cause. Pain, suffering, anxiety, and reduced quality of life all have value and should be included in your settlement.
Your lawyer can help build a case for these non-economic damages, supported by medical records, expert testimony, and personal statements, ensuring a more comprehensive settlement.
The initial offer rarely reflects the true value of your claim. Insurance companies expect you to settle for less, but with a lawyer by your side, you’ll have the experience and resources to fight for a fair settlement.
If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable amount, your attorney can take your case to court.
An attorney experienced in car accident claims will ensure that the settlement offer takes into account every aspect of your case. They will:
At Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C., we understand how frustrating the insurance process can be after a car accident. We’ll evaluate your case, protect your rights, and ensure you aren’t pressured into accepting a settlement less than what you’re owed.
Call (312) 236-2900 today or contact us online for a free consultation. You don’t have to navigate this process alone—let us help you get the compensation you deserve.
When you’re fighting for maximum compensation, we know what it takes to get it.
