Resist the Temptation to Accept that Quick Car Accident Settlement Offer
You have been injured in a car accident that was caused by another driver’s negligence, and it is a lot. While your medical bills continue to mount, you are likely also experiencing decreased earnings – and may have no idea about how best to proceed. If the insurance company comes back with a quick settlement offer, it can feel like they are offering you a lifeline, but do not be too quick to accept. In fact, if you have suffered an injury of any magnitude, you are well-advised to first consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Your Damages Can Be Overwhelming
The damages that emanate from car accidents can feel overwhelming and are likely to include:
Medical Expenses – Your medical expenses can range from emergency care and transportation, surgery, and time spent in the hospital, medications, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and much more.
Lost Earnings – If you have been seriously injured, you could be facing an extended period off the job and an attendant decrease in earnings. This financial loss, coupled with ongoing medical bills, can be especially difficult.
Pain and Suffering – The emotional and physical pain and suffering associated with being injured by another motorist often make the recovery process that much more difficult.
If the insurance company sweeps in with a settlement offer before you have even had time to assess the damages fully you have suffered, the offer is very unlikely to meet your needs. The fact is that a severe injury can lead to overarching health concerns that reach into your future and require ongoing health care and signing off on an early settlement offer can leave you on your own when it comes to paying for this care.
The Insurance Company Does Not Represent You
Yes, you have been injured by another motorist’s negligence, and yes, his or her insurance company is responsible for covering your damages – but this does not mean that the insurance provider represents your best interests. In fact, the insurance company – as a for-profit business – is motivated to minimize the at-fault party’s financial exposure. Further, the insurance company is well aware of the fact that you are likely struggling financially in the interim and that an early settlement offer could be quite tempting. While such an offer can help in the short term, it is unlikely to adequately address the full scope of your damages (especially if they extend into the future). Before you sign on the dotted line, consult with a dedicated personal injury attorney.