When you’ve been through an accident and suffered injuries and damages, it can be particularly upsetting if you are offered a low settlement amount. Our experienced Myrtle Beach personal injury firm at Maguire Law Firm has handled hundreds of cases and their related settlements, and with our assistance, you can negotiate what is fair and what you truly deserve.
Settlement Offers Are Often Just a Starting Point
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, just three percent of tort cases end up in trial, meaning that the great majority of cases settle prior to trial.
Some one-third of tort cases are also noted as being uncontested, meaning that the defendants did not file an answer, which can result in a default judgment on your behalf. If the initial settlement offer is low, it is important to keep in mind that it is very unlikely the insurance company will make you go to trial, and there may be more room for negotiation than you might think. An attorney knows the averages and norms and can help you.
Take the Time to Consider the Facts and Assess Before Responding
The experience of going through an accident can be particularly upsetting, and all the more so when your damages are not being covered. A low settlement offer can be upsetting, and it may seem appropriate to immediately refuse and perhaps even express some of your displeasure with the insurance company in less than savory words. It is important to pause, assess, and consider what the settlement offer means in the context of your unique circumstances.
A settlement offer helps to clarify where the insurance company thinks your damages stand. When reviewed by an experienced attorney, the meaning behind the offer is better understood, and your counteroffer will be better informed and more likely to maximize your settlement.
Pursue the Most Out of Your Settlement by Hiring Maguire Law Firm!
The advice of an attorney is highly valuable when negotiating with the insurance company. Contact us today to find out how we can help.
Personal Injury Settlement FAQs
Does a low settlement offer mean I don’t have a strong case?
No, sometimes insurance companies go for a quick settlement due to a very high volume of cases to process, and in doing so, they do not take into account the full amount of evidence available.
Is the insurance company working for me?
Generally, the at-fault party’s insurance company is looking out for its own bottom line, and minimizing pay-outs can support profit for insurance companies while carefully considering the situation and paying the maximum amount they are allowed might not.
When should I contact a personal injury attorney to help me maximize my settlement?
An attorney can be helpful in negotiating the best settlement sooner, so reach out as soon as you can after the accident.