When involved in a car accident, the injuries sustained and property damage to your vehicle can result in major economic setbacks. Amidst the chaos of the accident, filing a claim with your automobile insurance company is an inevitable step. As you undergo treatment for your injuries, the medical bills can pile up, further adding to your financial burden.
In addition, as you focus on regaining your health, you may need to take time off work, which can result in reduced income at the end of the month. This may leave you in a vulnerable position, relying on the support of friends and family, and possibly dipping into your savings account to cover outstanding medical bills. Our team can help you understand how best to deal with car insurance following an accident in Sugar Land.
When The Insurance Company Calls
When the insurance adjuster from the negligent driver’s insurance company calls to offer you a check for your injuries, it’s important to be aware that they are trying to maximize their profits by minimizing the settlement they offer you. Despite being not at fault for the accident, getting full and fair compensation for the harm and damages you’ve suffered can be a daunting task.
Insurance companies often delay and deny reasonable offers, particularly if they know you don’t have an attorney. They may take advantage of your financial deficit, given the severity of your injuries and the cost of treatment. However, this shouldn’t prompt you to accept the insurer’s settlement offer.
The insurance company may also entice you to make a counter offer. However, they already have limits on what they can offer, and if you counter with a number below that limit, you may end up settling for much less than the fair value of your case. For instance, they may offer $1,000, while your case’s true value could be $10,000. If you counter with $2,000, you may think you’ve won, but the insurer will see it as saving $8,000. Therefore, accepting the first, second, or third offer from your insurer may not be in your best interest. Their offer may not factor in all your medical bills, pain and suffering, or lost wages.
To avoid such situations, it’s advisable to seek legal help from experienced personal injury lawyers. They can help you navigate the process of dealing with Sugar Land insurers are a car wreck and ensure that you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.
For a free legal consultation, call (832) 449-8230
Factors to Consider in Evaluating Your Own Case
When evaluating whether to accept an offer, you should consider whether the settlement will cause you more emotional and financial stress. It’s natural to feel inclined to accept the offer, no matter how small it may be. However, before signing the settlement agreement, you should compare the amount offered by the insurance company with the total economic damages you’ve incurred. If their offer is significantly lower than your treatment costs, lost wages, and property damage, you have a good reason to reject it. Furthermore, the insurance company should compensate you for the non-economic damages of pain and suffering you’ve endured. Besides comparing the costs, you should request a detailed report from the insurer’s adjuster on how they analyzed your claim and arrived at the offered figure.
If you feel the offer meets your needs, you can accept it and expect a check in the mail. You will be required to send a written acceptance letter that forfeits your right to pursue a legal claim. If you refuse the settlement offer, the insurance company may wait for the statute of limitations to expire on your case or receive a formal demand from your attorney. In such a scenario, you will need the services of a dedicated and experienced lawyer to manage the stress that comes with a Sugar Land insurance company unwilling to offer you what you rightfully deserve after a car wreck.
How Can A Lawyer Help?
At Lone Star Injury Attorneys, our skilled lawyers can assist you in seeking a higher settlement that reflects the true value of your case and the injuries you have sustained. With our experience, we understand the worth of personal injury cases and the potential award a judge or jury may grant. We fight for maximum indemnification for damages such as:
- Lost income
- Past and future medical expenses
- Loss of income earning ability
- Lost premiums
- Physical pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Diminished quality of life
- Loss of inheritance in case of wrongful death
- Burial/funeral expenses
- Any other provable damages
Sadly, many insurance companies prey on unrepresented claimants who may not be aware of the actual value of their case. This is why it is crucial to have a determined attorney who will fight for your rights and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you deal with car insurance following an accident in Sugar Land.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form