Was Your Car Accident Settlement Too Low? Here Are Your Next Steps

Here’s the story – You were in a car accident where you sustained injuries, and your vehicle is totaled. You took the correct steps to make sure you had your information straight before contacting the insurance agency, such as getting the police report, finding out the proper worth of your car prior to the accident, the final amount of your medical bills, and other relevant facts. After some time, the insurance company’s settlement offer turns out to be much lower than what you were expecting. You’re furious. What should you do now?

First of all, you should be aware that is NOT the only money you could receive in this type of scenario. The insurance company’s first offer is always the lowest, as it is the starting point for negotiations. You have the right to counteroffer, but you need the right proof to support it. That is why you need an experienced automobile accident attorney on your side during this difficult time.

The negotiation process goes as follows:

• First, you will receive the initial offer from the insurance company, which (in many cases) is usually lower than what your claim is really worth.
• Your attorney will respond to the insurance company’s offer on your behalf with a letter that demands a larger claim. Included in the letter should be all the facts about your accident, including any injuries you may have sustained, police reports, medical bills and records, and photographic evidence of the damage.
• There will be some back-and-forth between your attorney and insurance provider for a larger claim. The insurance adjuster will also try to go for the lowest number possible, which is why you need a lawyer that exactly knows how much your case is worth.
• Once your insurance settlement is reached, you will sign a release of liability (which waives your right to sue for more damages), and you will receive your settlement.

This can be a very complicated process, especially if you are not sure how much your claim is actually worth. The same could be said if you are lacking the proper proof. Not to worry – the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone have been fighting for the rights of New Jersey car accident victims for nearly three decades. Contact us today for a free consultation.