Should I Accept A Settlement Offer After A Car Accident?

The aftermath of a car accident can leave you overwhelmed and wondering how you will pay your medical bills and support your family. At Moore Law Firm, car accident lawyers have helped thousands of personal injury clients recover the full compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses. We are familiar with tactics that insurance companies often use to offer as little as possible to injured victims. These tips can help you protect your rights and understand the importance of seeking the counsel of an experienced attorney before accepting any settlement offer after a car accident.

Should I Accept The First Settlement Offer After A Car Accident?

No. Accepting an insurance company’s first offer is usually a losing proposition. After a car accident, an insurance adjuster will most likely call you before you even know the extent of your injuries and the impact they may have on your life. Although it can be tempting to accept an offer right away, especially when you feel like you are in dire financial straits, the amount an insurer offers is most likely not enough to cover damages such as medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

If an adjuster tries to pressure you into taking the first settlement they offer, politely decline. It is vital to choose your words carefully when speaking with them. Do not admit fault or sign anything they send to you. You do not have to provide them with any additional information except your full name, address, and telephone number.

Signing a settlement agreement typically releases the insurance company from liability, so you will not have any further recourse to recover compensation. This goes for your own insurance company as well. An experienced car accident attorney can assess your case, determine what it is worth, advise you of the best course of action, and handle all subsequent negotiations on your behalf.

What Happens If I Don’t Accept A Settlement Offer After A Car Accident?

Rejecting a settlement offer does not mean that your case will automatically go to trial. In most personal injury cases reaching a reasonable settlement usually takes several rounds of negotiations. However, if an insurer decides not to offer a settlement at all, you may have to take your case to court. These are just a few reasons why seeking the advice of an attorney is essential if you have been injured in a car accident.  It is also important to remember in Alabama you have two (2) years from the date of the accident to file suit against the at-fault party.

How Should I Respond To A Low Settlement Offer After A Car Accident?

If an insurance company offers you a low settlement, it is usually best to respond with a counteroffer. Your car accident attorney can draft an offer that details why you deserve a certain amount of compensation. Having a lawyer draft this letter is critical to ensure you include all relevant information and ask for the full and fair amount of compensation you deserve for your damages.

How Long Does It Take To Settle A Car Accident Lawsuit?

It depends. Car accident claims can take just a few months to settle, while more complex cases can take years. Although the vast majority of personal injury claims are settled out of court if a reasonable settlement cannot be reached your attorney may advise you to continue pursuing compensation through litigation. If you are filing a claim with your own insurance provider, settling it may only take a month or two.

Each case is unique. Your car accident lawyer can help you understand the process so you can get an idea of what is involved and how long your case may take. Read our FAQ about car accidents to get answers to common questions. It is important to keep in mind that the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Alabama is typically two years, so it is imperative to act fast following an accident. Collecting evidence and investigating the circumstances surrounding an accident as soon as possible also increases your chances of recovering maximum compensation.

Contact A Mobile, AL Car Accident Lawyer

At Moore Law Firm, we know that deciding whether to accept a settlement offer after a car accident can be daunting. Our team is dedicated to helping injured victims rebuild their lives and making things right for their families. We are there for you every step of the way– our car accident attorneys act as your staunch advocates and fight aggressively to help you recover the maximum compensation you need and deserve. Call us at 251-445-7602, use the convenient chat feature on our website, or contact us online to schedule a consultation.