After a car accident, the insurance company might contact you quickly with an insurance offer. At first glance, this might seem like a relief—one less thing to worry about, right? However, accepting that initial settlement can be one of your biggest financial mistakes. Insurance companies are not usually on your side. They aim to close claims as quickly and cheaply as possible, often before you even understand the full extent of your injuries.
Have you ever wondered, “Should I get a lawyer for a car accident?” Yes, of course, especially when dealing with insurers eager to settle fast. The first insurance offer is rarely fair, and in many cases, it’s designed to prevent you from seeking the compensation you truly deserve.
Before you agree to anything, take a moment to understand why that lowball offer is being made—and what you should do instead to ensure your financial protection.
Why Insurance Companies Offer Low Settlements
Picture this: You’re injured, your car is damaged, and medical bills are already piling up. Then, the insurance adjuster calls and offers a settlement. It might not cover everything, but at least it’s something, right? That’s exactly the mindset insurers hope you’ll have.
Insurance companies operate like any other business—protecting their profits is their top priority. They offer low settlements because many claimants, especially those without legal representation, are vulnerable after an accident. They count on you being overwhelmed, unsure of your rights, and eager to move on.
But they don’t tell you that the first insurance offer often ignores key financial losses, such as long-term medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It’s a calculated move to settle claims before victims realize how much they’re entitled to under their auto insurance policy.
Additionally, some insurers may question whether you had proof of insurance at the time of the accident, delaying or complicating your claim. If you do not go through the necessary submission of documents, such as police reports and medical records, they might argue that your claim is incomplete and try to reduce the payout.
The True Cost of Your Injuries and Damages
Let’s say you’ve suffered a back injury in a car crash. At first, you might think the pain will subside after a few weeks. But months later, you’re still struggling—physical therapy is expensive, you’re missing work, and everyday tasks have become a challenge. Accepting the initial insurance offer might have barely covered your emergency room visit, leaving you responsible for thousands of dollars in ongoing medical care.
A fair settlement should fully reflect how your accident has affected your life—now and in the future.
Many victims underestimate the true cost of their injuries, only to realize later that the initial insurance offer was far from enough. Before accepting any settlement, consider the types of compensation you may be entitled to:
- Medical bills: Not just immediate hospital visits, but long-term care like surgeries, rehabilitation, and outpatient care.
- Lost wages: If you’ve had to take time off work or if your injuries prevent you from returning to your job.
- Pain and suffering: Emotional distress, PTSD, and the overall decline in your quality of life.
- Property damage: The costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
- Future expenses: Some injuries don’t fully reveal their financial impact until later.
If you rush to accept a settlement, you may forfeit your right to claim compensation for these long-term damages, and your peace of mind may be compromised as you struggle to pay bills that should have been covered.
Common Tactics Insurance Adjusters Use
Insurance companies don’t just throw out low offers and hope you accept—they have ways to push you into settling for less.
Many adjusters will downplay your injuries, suggesting that they aren’t as serious as you claim. They might pressure you into accepting the offer quickly, knowing that once you sign, you can’t ask for more later. Some even blame you for the accident, arguing that you were partially responsible, which allows them to reduce the payout.
Then there’s the most deceptive tactic: using your own words against you. If you give a recorded statement, an adjuster might twist what you say to weaken your claim. A simple remark like “I’m feeling better” can be used to argue that you aren’t seriously injured, even if you’re still in pain.
What to Do Instead of Accepting the First Offer
If you receive a low insurance offer, don’t rush into accepting it. Instead, follow these steps to protect your rights and maximize your compensation:
1. Take a Step Back
When the insurance company calls with a settlement offer, resist the urge to accept it immediately. You are under no obligation to respond right away. Insurers often pressure claimants into quick settlements before they fully understand the extent of their injuries and damages. Take time to evaluate your policy documents and your legal options before making any decisions.
2. Consult our Accident Attorney
Before speaking with the insurance company, seek legal advice from a car accident attorney in Hawthorne. Our experienced lawyer understands insurance company tactics and knows how to fight for the compensation you deserve. We can review the offer, assess your damages, and determine whether the settlement is fair—or if you should push for more.
3. Gather Evidence to Support Your Claim
The more documentation you have, the stronger your claim will be. Collect:
- Medical records and bills from medical providers to show the severity of your injuries.
- Accident reports from law enforcement detailing the incident.
- Witness statements to confirm what happened.
- Photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
This evidence helps prove the actual value of your claim, making it harder for the insurer to downplay your damages.
4. Don’t Negotiate Alone
Insurance companies take claimants more seriously when they have legal representation. Our experienced lawyer will:
- Accurately assess the full value of your claim – This includes not only your current medical expenses and lost wages but also future treatment costs, rehabilitation, and diminished earning capacity.
- Negotiate aggressively on your behalf – Insurers often present lowball offers in hopes that claimants will settle quickly. We will push for the compensation you rightfully deserve.
- Challenge unfair settlement tactics – From delaying payments to disputing liability, insurance companies use various strategies to minimize payouts. We know their tactics and how to fight back effectively.
5. Be Aware of Deadlines for Claims
: Each auto insurance policy has a deadline for claims, and failing to file within the required timeframe could mean losing your right to compensation. A lawyer can help ensure you meet all deadlines while maximizing your settlement.
6. Stay Patient and Practice Safe Driving
: Insurance companies rely on claimants becoming impatient and settling too soon. The negotiation process can take time, but waiting for a better offer is often in your best interest. While waiting for your claim resolution, practice safe driving to avoid further complications or liability in future accidents.
By following these steps, you can avoid settling for less than you deserve and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. If unsure about your next move, consult our accident attorney in Hawthorne today.
Take Control of Your Claim—Get the Compensation You Deserve
The first insurance offer you receive is rarely fair, and accepting it too soon can leave you struggling with unpaid medical bills and financial losses. If you’re asking, “What do I do after an auto accident?” the most important step is to consult an attorney before agreeing to any settlement.
At Farahi Law Firm – Hawthorne, we help accident victims fight for maximum compensation. Don’t let the insurance company decide what your case is worth—call us today for a FREE consultation, and let us advocate for you. With the proper legal support, you can protect your rights, secure the compensation you deserve, and gain peace of mind knowing your future is safeguarded.
