It's essential that you respond in writing, not verbally, if you receive a low settlement offer. After evaluating the offer, prepare a demand letter stating the exact value of the claim, supported by relevant evidence. It is also crucial to avoid making inflexible demands during negotiations, to keep the conversation open and to allow adjustments that can lead to a mutually acceptable solution without the need for further legal action. Receiving a cheap settlement offer for your pain and suffering can be insulting, but you owe it to yourself not to react emotionally to an initial offer.
It's important to consider certain factors when responding to a low personal injury compensation offer. The settlement offer that's right for you is one that helps you meet your needs so you can move on with your life after an accident. By “speaking the language of negotiations to reach an agreement” and by protecting you from the tricks and tactics of insurance and defense attorneys, the lawyer evens out the playing field between you and the insurance company, which in turn increases your chances of receiving the money you deserve. We recommend that you do not respond to the insurance company until you have spoken to your injury lawyer.
Filing a counteroffer in writing is essential, as it provides a clear record of communication and helps ensure clarity when detailing the justification and evidence for the counteroffer. Regardless of the insurance adjuster's reasons for offering a low settlement offer, your personal injury attorney can refute these claims. Remember that the goal is to ensure a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your injuries and the associated costs. Your next step is to write a short letter responding to each of the reasons the adjuster mentioned to justify your low supply.
Sometimes, people are reluctant to call their personal injury lawyer for help with an insurance claim or settlement because they think it's too expensive. Your attorney will draft a formal response to the offer notifying the insurer that you are refusing the offer. Trust a personal injury attorney to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company for the injuries and losses suffered from your accident. When negotiations to reach a settlement don't yield a fair offer and the insurance company doesn't cooperate, the next step may be to file a personal injury lawsuit.
In addition to medical costs, an evaluation must also take into account associated pain and suffering that may continue in the future, to inform about a reasonable counteroffer. Experienced negotiators know that the first offers are never the best, especially when an insurance company is on the other side of the negotiating table. A personal injury attorney will objectively analyze your claim, examine the insurance adjuster's settlement offers and related correspondence, and formulate the most effective strategy to move your case forward.