If you have been in a car accident, you may be facing a long recovery from your injuries, an inability to return to work and financial hardship for both yourself and your family. If another driver caused the collision, you may be able to receive needed compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Unfortunately, an agent may try to press you to accept a fast-but-low settlement offer, especially if your injuries were severe.
1. Insurance agents are often focused on company profits
Insurance companies make more money when they can avoid paying claims in full. While agents may seem friendly and helpful, their job is often to minimize the amount the company pays out.
2. A fast offer may mean your claim is worth more
If the insurance company does not deny your claim outright, an adjuster may try to tempt you with a fast offer because they know that your claim may be worth much more, especially if your injuries were extensive.
3. Your injuries may be worse than you realize
From broken bones or brain trauma to spinal cord or nerve damage, many types of auto injuries involve both a potentially long recovery time and an uncertain outcome. Before accepting a settlement, make sure your doctor has had a chance to give you a full medical workup.
While you may find it tempting to take a quick payment offer, keep in mind that you may not yet know the full amount needed to cover both present and future costs related to your injuries. In addition to medical bills and lost wages, you may have to live with a permanent disability, chronic pain and emotional distress that impacts both you and your relationship with loved ones.