Car accidents can be overwhelming. From dealing with injuries to managing car repairs, lost wages, and mounting medical bills, the last thing you want is to settle for less than you deserve. Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to resolve claims quickly and for as little as possible—sometimes offering settlements that barely cover your expenses.
If you’ve received a settlement offer after a crash, don’t accept it immediately. It is essential to evaluate whether it fully compensates you for your injuries, damages, and future expenses. Here’s what you need to know before signing anything.
After a car accident, you may expect the at-fault driver’s insurance to cover all your expenses. However, insurance companies are businesses focused on maximizing profits—not ensuring your well-being. They aim to pay as little as possible while closing your claim quickly.
Adjusters use various tactics to justify low settlement offers, including:
They may argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim, especially if you delayed seeking medical treatment.
If you have a prior injury or medical condition, they might claim that your current pain is unrelated to the accident.
If you received care from a chiropractor or physical therapist instead of a medical doctor, they may try to deny or reduce compensation for those treatments.
Insurers often offer a low settlement soon after the accident, hoping you’ll accept before realizing the full extent of your damages.
Insurance adjusters assess claims based on several factors, including:
Even if your claim is strong, the insurance company may undervalue it or exclude key damages in its initial offer.
If you’re unsure whether your offer is fair, watch for these warning signs:
If you receive a settlement offer shortly after the accident, it’s likely a lowball attempt to close your case quickly.
If you have ongoing treatment, surgeries, or therapy needs, your settlement should account for those costs.
Insurance companies sometimes try to pay only for medical bills and property damage, ignoring the emotional and physical toll of the accident.
Once you accept a settlement, you forfeit the right to pursue additional compensation—even if new medical issues arise.
Insurance companies are banking on the fact that most accident victims don’t know what their case is truly worth. They may try to convince you that their offer is “fair” or that this is the most you can get. However, an experienced personal injury lawyer knows how to calculate damages and push back against unfair tactics accurately.
By consulting an attorney, you can:
Negotiating with insurance companies can be stressful, especially when you’re dealing with the physical and emotional impact of a crash. But you don’t have to face it alone.
At Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C., we’ve helped countless car accident victims secure fair compensation. We know the tactics insurers use and how to fight back. Whether your accident happened in Chicago, Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, Waukegan, or surrounding areas, we’re ready to help.
Get a free consultation today. Call (312) 236-2900 to discuss your case. You don’t pay unless we win.
When you’re fighting for maximum compensation, we know what it takes to get it.
