When you’re in a car accident, it’s tempting to accept the first settlement that the insurance company offers. While you’re free to do so, you don’t have to. In fact, accepting the first settlement you’re offered may not be in your best interest. Instead, you may want to work with an Atlanta personal injury lawyer to help you get a bigger settlement. But why should you? Here are a few key reasons why accepting the initial insurance settlement may not be the best choice.
You May Not Know the Full Extent of Your Injuries
Immediately after an accident, you likely have a good idea of how severe the damage is to your car, but the extent of your physical and emotional injuries may not be as clear. It can take time for injuries to become visible and if you accept the initial insurance settlement without waiting, you may end up with less money than you need to fully focus on your recovery.
Insurance Companies Often Lowball Accident Victims
It’s never in the insurance company’s best interest to offer high settlements. They want to save as much money as possible and the more money they save, the happier the executives are. That often means that the initial settlement will be far lower than you deserve. If you accept it, you may end up accepting an offer that benefits the insurance company more than it benefits you.
You’ll Waive Your Right to Push for a Higher Settlement Amount
When you accept an insurance settlement, you’re effectively telling the insurance company that you’re happy with the amount they’re offering. Once you accept, you’ll be unable to appeal the settlement even if the cost of repairs to your vehicle is more expensive than you initially thought, or your medical bills are more costly than you expected. By waiting and working with an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer, you’ll be able to review your needs and request a larger amount of money from the insurance company.
The Insurance Adjuster Works for the Insurance Company, Not You
When you file a claim, an insurance adjuster will review your case and assess the damage you suffered. Their assessment is how insurance companies determine how much money to offer in the initial settlement. While it might seem like they’re there to help you get a fair settlement, it’s important to remember that the insurance adjuster works for the insurance company, not you. It’s their job to provide low estimates for repairs and those estimates may not be close to the actual costs you’ll face.
Speak With an Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you’re the victim of an accident, whether you suffered minor injuries or are dealing with the aftereffects of a traumatic brain injury, accepting the initial settlement may not be in your best interest. By contesting the settlement and showing that your actual costs are significantly higher than the amount the insurance company is offering, you may be able to get a larger settlement.
Ready to explore your options? Contact Steven Jones Injury Law today. Our experienced team understands that every accident and injury is different. We’ll review your case and help you decide on the best next steps so you can get the compensation you deserve.