4 Factors To Consider Before Accepting An Insurance Settlement
Personal injuries happen when you least expect them and can have long ranging impacts on every area of your life. For months or even years afterward, you could be facing expensive and ongoing medical costs while your injuries prevent you from working or performing simple daily tasks.
Whether you have been involved in a car, bike, or pedestrian accident, suffered a slip and fall injury, or been struck by or against an object on another’s property, there may be insurance coverage to help offset the damages you suffer. However, before accepting a settlement, there are some important factors you need to consider.
Getting the Most from an Insurance Settlement
When any type of accident occurs, it is important to report it to the proper authorities, to get the names and contact information of the parties involved, and to seek medical attention immediately. Even a minor mishap can leave you suffering serious harm, and failing to do any of the above can impact your rights in an insurance settlement.
When filing a claim, it is common to want to settle your case in the least amount of time possible. However, rushing to accept a settlement could end up hurting you in the long run, leaving you with numerous out of pocket expenses. Before settling a claim or signing any documents, you need to be aware of the following:
1. Insurance companies are profit driven.
Insurers are in business to make money. As such, they have a financial motive for denying or undervaluing your claim. A common tactic is to offer an immediate settlement, when you are vulnerable and still early in your recovery. Be aware that this amount is likely to be significantly less than what you are entitled to.
2. If you are found partially to blame, it will reduce the amount you will receive.
An additional practice to be wary of is when a claims adjuster attempts to blame you for your accident or your injuries. By claiming you are even partially at fault, they can reduce the amount they have to pay out in your claim.
3. Insurers often downplay your future costs.
While it may seem like a victory if you are offered a settlement that covers your current medical expenses and lost wages, it is important to bear in mind the future costs you are likely to incur. Many relatively minor conditions can leave you requiring ongoing treatment for years to come. Your settlement needs to reflect these costs.
4. You may be better served through a personal injury lawsuit.
In many cases, an insurance settlement is not your only option. Under the South Carolina Code of Laws, you may be entitled to a significantly greater amount of compensation through a personal injury claim.
Contact Us Today for Help
At the Surasky Law Firm, LLC, we have extensive experience negotiating with insurers and can help ensure you get the maximum amount you are entitled to. Before accepting a settlement that is not in your best interests, reach out and contact our Aiken personal attorney today to request a consultation.
