After a car accident, you rely on the insurance company to offer compensation to cover your injuries and losses. Unfortunately, the offer made is not always fair.
Do you know what to do in these situations? If not, find out here.
Assess the initial offer
The aftermath of a car accident is often a complex and emotional time. After dealing with your medical needs and filing an insurance claim, receiving a settlement offer that’s too low can add another layer of stress. However, it’s crucial to understand that the first offer is typically a starting point. Insurance companies often offer lower amounts initially, expecting some pushback.
At this point, negotiations with the insurance company will begin. Your legal representative can handle this process and use evidence to show why more compensation is deserved.
Gather evidence
As mentioned, evidence is crucial when negotiating your accident settlement. The evidence collected by you and your attorney can strengthen your case.
Types of evidence that can be used to strengthen your case include:
- Medical records
- Repair estimates
- Lost wage evidence
Photos and witness statements can also be useful. This evidence helps to justify a higher settlement amount, making it harder for the insurance company to dispute your claim.
Prepare a counter-offer
At this point, a counteroffer is created. It will specify the compensation requested and back it up with the evidence. The counteroffer will cover immediate costs and any ongoing or future expenses related to the accident, such as physical therapy or long-term medical treatment.
Persistence is necessary
Negotiations are often part of an accident settlement process. Sometimes, the counteroffer submitted will be accepted, but this is not always true. Having persistent representation is necessary to ensure a fair settlement is reached.
Remember, a low initial offer is not the final word. By taking the right steps and negotiating effectively, it is possible to secure a settlement that accurately reflects your needs and losses. Legal guidance is wise.
