Many people want to resolve things as quickly as possible when involved in an accident. However, accepting the first offer from an insurance company often limits the potential payout.
Working with a car accident lawyer may make it easier to evaluate the initial offer and negotiate for something better. Those involved in an accident should consider hiring an auto accident lawyer for assistance with claims, especially if they sustain an injury in the crash.
With over 5.1 million car accident injuries in the US in 2022 (per the National Safety Council), the national financial ramifications of these incidents are staggering, and legal support may offer the best chance at compensation. Injured parties should learn more about the benefits of holding out for better offers under the guidance of a car accident lawyer.
Why You Should Not Take the First Offer From an Insurance Company
There are a few critical reasons why it is best not to take the initial offer unless a vehicle crash lawyer advises it.
First, an insurance company’s ante is often a lowball offer. The company saves money by minimizing its payout and paying less than the full damages owed. It may also use pressure tactics, including phrases such as “best and final offer,” to encourage injured parties to accept.
Combatting this pressure by holding out for a better settlement in line with the amount detailed in your policy could lead to a fairer outcome.
Additionally, this offer might be based on an inadequate assessment of costs. Personal injuries often yield hidden or long-term costs beyond the initial medical treatment. It is critical for those affected to bring any missing costs to their adjuster’s attention to ensure fair compensation. An
attorney can help the injured party identify hidden costs they might not think about in the immediate aftermath of an accident.
Rejecting the first offer also creates negotiation leverage and allows the injured party to request a higher settlement. While there is no guarantee that this will result in a higher payout, it presents an opportunity that is otherwise lost when accepting the first offer.
How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?
After sustaining an injury during a car accident, hiring a personal injury/car crash lawyer is important. These experienced professionals can assist you with filing insurance claims and negotiating offers to ensure the final payout includes the appropriate damages. These attorneys are familiar with the state and federal requirements for insurance companies and understand how much flexibility comes with the initial offer.
A motor vehicle collision attorney will assist those injured in car crashes with pursuing economic and non-economic damages. They can ensure insurance companies do not downplay the injuries or attempt to lowball settlement offers. These professionals can also represent injured parties in court if a settlement is not possible (while a hearing is rare for personal injury cases, it is always wise to work with a prepared attorney in case the situation escalates).
Those involved in a car accident should immediately seek the appropriate medical treatment and ensure their safety. During this process, victims should carefully document the accident and their medical treatment in detail. These documents will provide evidence for a car accident lawyer to solidify claims.
Consult Hancock Injury Attorneys After a Car Accident
Hancock Injury Attorneys offer legal counsel to those injured in a car accident. Our experienced attorneys can support you or your loved ones through the aftermath of a life-changing personal injury and assist you in seeking the appropriate compensation.
Call 813-590-0145 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.