Why Do Families Settle for Less After an Accident—and Should You?

September 16, 2025 | By Mike Hancock
Why Do Families Settle for Less After an Accident—and Should You?

After an accident, you may be surprised at how quickly the other driver’s insurance company contacts you. Within days, you could be pressured to accept a settlement check. But why do families often settle for less—and should you?

Why Insurance Companies Push Quick Settlements

Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line. That means they want you to sign off on your claim as soon as possible, often before you know the full extent of your injuries. Within the first week, you may not realize whether your pain will last a few weeks, a few months, or become a permanent condition. By getting you to settle early, the insurance company saves money—while you risk losing the compensation you may truly need.

The Risks of Settling Too Soon

Once you sign a settlement agreement (often called a “release of claims”), your case is closed forever. Even if you later discover ongoing pain, permanent injuries, or medical costs, you cannot go back and demand more compensation. That’s why accepting an early settlement can be a costly mistake.

Why Speaking to an Attorney Matters

Before signing anything, it’s important to talk with an experienced personal injury attorney. At Hancock Injury Attorneys, we can connect you with trusted doctors who can properly diagnose your injuries and determine whether they may cause long-term or permanent problems. With that information, we can calculate the fair value of your claim and fight to protect your future.

Don’t Settle for Less

If an insurance adjuster is pressuring you to settle after an accident, don’t sign anything until you’ve spoken with us. Your consultation is always free, and we’ll give you honest guidance on whether you need legal representation or not.

Mike Hancock

TAMPA PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

People involved in serious accidents experience loss and often don’t know what to do next.

Tampa Personal Injury Attorney Mike Hancock has dedicated his career to handling the recovery process for his clients so that their lives can get back to normal.

Mike has excelled in personal injury litigation for over 35 years, and even though that’s earned him numerous professional honors, what’s most important to him is meeting directly with you and his commitment to giving you peace of mind.

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