According to statistics, most car accident cases do not go to trial. Many victims prefer dealing with insurance companies instead in order to avoid the rigorous and time-consuming process of filing a lawsuit and going to trial. But to settle your case, you must present a compelling case to insurance companies.
You settle a Bellaire car accident case by progressing through several stages, including the demand letter, negotiations, and offer acceptance. For help with this confusing and crucial process, reach out to a Bellaire car accident lawyer for assistance.
Stage 1: Demand Letter
The first step after collecting all facts about your case and determining fault is writing a demand letter to your insurer or that of the other party. Here, you lay out all the facts and circumstances of the accident for which you wish to settle.
Additionally, you list all your demands as far as damages are concerned. This is the best opportunity for you to build the strongest case outside of court. A well-crafted demand letter contains all the necessary information that insurance companies need to verify your claim.
It will list the day and time of the crash, the medical treatment received, tangible and intangible losses incurred, and any other related damages. Interestingly, your attorney will quote a higher settlement demand than what the insurance company will reasonably accept in order to leave enough room for negotiations.
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Stage 2: Negotiations
The insurance company will review your demand letter and any other documents you may have provided. Often, insurance companies will immediately reach out with a settlement offer after receiving your letter, especially when your case is strong. However, you shouldn’t be surprised if the first offer is far below what you expected.
You should refrain from accepting any offers made unless under the counsel of your car accident lawyer. In response to the offer made by insurance companies, your attorney may decline the terms, citing the damages you suffered. In the responsive letter, they will politely but aggressively remind the adjuster of critical elements and parts of your demand letter.
After your lawyer declines the offer, they will submit an acceptable counteroffer to settle your Bellair car accident case. Back-and-forth engagements will continue for some time until you and your attorney decide to settle or take the matter further.
Stage 3: Accepting the Offer
After back-and-forth negotiations, the insurance adjuster may offer a settlement that meets your satisfaction or covers most of your damages. But before accepting their offer and terms, always double-check that important damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and other expenses are covered.
Remember, you must sign a release before you finally receive your check. A release is a legal document that bars you from demanding further compensation after you accept the settlement offer made by your insurer. Because this amounts to signing away your rights, you must ensure that the offer you receive is fair.
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3 Mistakes to Avoid When Settling a Car Accident Case in Bellaire
Settling a Bellaire car accident case is dependent on how well you are prepared to deal with insurance companies. What you do or say matters, and you should avoid making these common mistakes:
Failing to Follow Up with Treatment
Seeing a doctor after an accident is just a small fraction of what is expected of you as far as medical evaluation and treatment are concerned. You must follow up with your doctor’s plan as advised.
Any gaps in treatment may open a loophole for insurance companies and adjusters to deny your injury claim. Don’t worry about missing out on wages for days not worked as you go for your next appointment. Our personal injury attorneys ensure that you are compensated for every loss you suffer in the process.
Settling Too Soon
As discussed earlier, settling too soon without due diligence for the damages you suffered is a bad idea, especially when looking to get the most out of your case. You must remember to account for all your losses before signing the release. Failure to do so will see you settle for a low amount that does not reflect the true value of your claim.
Not Retaining a Car Accident Lawyer
Another mistake to steer clear of when settling a Bellaire car accident case is dealing with insurance companies alone. They are intimidating and often unfair. So to ensure your rights are put at the forefront, you should retain an assertive attorney who will vigorously work to get the most out of your car accident case.
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Contact Lone Star Injury Attorneys Today
Our auto wreck attorneys at Lone Star Injury Attorneys are open to discussing your case for free. Please fill out our online contact form to set up the initial meeting. Learn about how we can provide The Gold Standard in Personal Injury™.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
