When you have been in hit by a faulty driver in a traffic accident, it can be tempting to accept a check on the scene or shortly thereafter from their insurance company. However, as the old adage goes, “quick money is not always good money.”
If you make the decision to accept the first offer made to you, you could be severely shortchanging yourself. The at-fault driver should be held liable for all damages and injuries you have incurred. Accepting a quick settlement from them or their insurance provider could make it impossible to recoup further damages. In many cases, the true worth of a case cannot be determined within a few minutes, hours, or days.
Determining the full value of a car accident will require the expertise of medical professionals and the investigative skills of an experienced personal injury attorney (if injuries have occurred). Thus, when initial payment is offered, it is almost always in your best interest to consult with an attorney first. If you are worried about the cost of a consultation, you shouldn’t be. Most personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation where they will advise you on how strong your case is and whether or not they believe that it is a winnable claim. Learn more about the potential pitfalls of accepting a check from a faulty driver after an accident occurs below.
Why You Shouldn’t Accept a Check From a Faulty Driver
After an accident, the likelihood of the at-fault party and/or their insurance company offering you fair compensation for your injuries on the first offer is slim to none. In most cases, they are interested in absolving themself of further liabilities in a fashion that is the least bothersome and expensive to them.
Accepting initial offers before consulting with medical and legal professionals could be detrimental to your finances as well as health. Listed below are some of the more common reasons why accepting a premature settlement offer is not usually a good idea.
1. It can take a while to know the extent of your injuries: In many cases, it can take some time to determine each injury suffered, how much rehab will be required, as well as how it will affect your ability to earn future income.
2. Insurance companies are not interested in what’s best for you: The at-fault party or their insurance provider is not thinking about how the accident will affect you. They are more concerned with what is in their best interest and how they can limit the negative consequences of their actions as much and as quickly as possible.
3. It’s not advisable to accept offers without consulting with an attorney: Personal injury attorneys are trained to investigate accidents, determine fault, and negotiate with insurance providers. You are not (in most cases). Insurers know this and can take advantage of you during the negotiation process if you are not appropriately represented.
Help avoid accidents by learning as much as possible about driving and the theory before you take the required tests on your way to getting your driving license.
How to Find an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
It is recommended that you consult with a car accident attorney shortly after the accident has occurred. However, just any attorney will not do. When searching for a personal injury lawyer to represent you, it is imperative that you hire a professional that is experienced and proven. Your search should consist of checking online reviews, inquiring about the attorney’s area of expertise, asking about their trial record, and fully understanding their fee structure. Due diligence is necessary, but do not wait until the statute of limitations has expired for pursuing personal injury claims. Working with an aggressive and proven attorney will help you to get fully compensated. It may take longer than a few days, but in most cases, the wait is well worth it.
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