How to Handle Lowball Settlement Offers after a Car Accident

If you’re hurt in a car accident in Alabama, you’re likely concerned about how you’ll pay for your medical bills, property damages, and other expenses. You might be ready to file an insurance claim and accept their offer immediately, but be wary of lowball offers.

Insurance companies operate for profit and make money by minimizing payouts wherever they can. They’ll likely offer you much less than your claim is worth and hope you’ll take it to settle quickly; that’s why you should never accept an offer without first talking to a lawyer. Learn more about how to avoid lowball settlement offers after a car accident.

Complete Recommended Medical Treatment

Don’t consider any offers from the insurance company until you have finished the treatment your doctor recommends. Car accident injuries might not be readily apparent and remain hidden for months; other times, injuries might appear to heal with physical therapy or chiropractic care but can return if treatment is stopped.

Insurance companies try to make settlement offers immediately following the accident before you realize the full extent of your injuries. Or, if you fail to complete your treatment, the insurance company might claim your injuries aren’t as severe as you say. Adhering to your doctor’s prescribed treatment will expedite your recovery and support your insurance claim.

Organize Your Records and Documents

Keeping track of evidence to support your claim is vital to maximizing your case’s value. The more documentation you have to prove the severity of your injuries and the extent of your damages, the more leverage you have to negotiate with the insurance company. Compile documents such as:

• Your crash report
• Copies of your medical records and bills
• Witness information
• Photos and videos of the accident scene
• Proof of lost wages, such as previous pay stubs

Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer

Once you have your documents in order, you can begin the insurance claim process. Many personal injury lawyers offer free consultations, where you can ask questions about the possible value of your claim and what might happen next with your case.

Having a lawyer on your side who has experience with insurance companies can be beneficial. They can ensure you understand all your legal options and help you make the right decision for your circumstances.

File Your Insurance Claim

Your car accident attorney can help you file your claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance. They’ll calculate the total value of your claim and deal directly with the adjuster, so you can focus on recovery and moving forward with your life.

The claims process can take time, and your lawyer will advocate for you to recover the compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, so we don’t collect any payment unless we successfully secure a settlement.

Negotiate with the Insurance Company

The insurance company may try to lowball you for several reasons, such as claiming you were at fault for the accident or undervaluing your losses. Their strategy is to wear you down, stretch the process out, and push you to accept a low offer fast.

Keep communicating with your attorney and remain firm with offers you will be happy with. If the insurance company doesn’t budge, filing a lawsuit could be the next step in recovering the compensation you need. Under Alabama’s statute of limitations, your lawsuit must be filed within two years of the accident. Your attorney will ensure any next steps are taken before the statute runs out and handle any legal motions that may need filing.

Belt, Bruner & Barnett P.C. Can Help Fight Lowball Offers

Lowball settlement offers are all too common because insurance companies have found they work. You can avoid settling for less than what your claim is worth by working with an experienced car accident attorney at Belt, Bruner & Barnett P.C.

Our team has decades of experience negotiating with insurance companies in Alabama car accident cases, and we won’t hesitate to take your case to court if necessary.

Call (205) 933-1500 or contatct us online today to schedule a free case consultation.