If you have been involved in a car accident in Bellevue that was due to another party’s negligence, the at-fault party is liable to pay for your damages. However, it is important to know that insurance companies think about their own interest and want to save as much money as they can.
The first settlement offer from the insurance company is usually less and does not cover even half of your damages. You have the right to negotiate with the insurance company until you think they offer a reasonable settlement. A Bellevue car accident lawyer can help you in the negotiating process and help you get fair compensation for your damages.
When should you accept an insurance company’s settlement offer?
You should never accept the insurance company’s first offer. Insurance companies rarely offer you a fair settlement initially. Before knowing how much damage you have sustained emotionally, physically, and financially, you should never accept a settlement offer.
The insurance company will try to trick you by sending you an offer a few days after the accident. However, that would not even cover half of your damages, including medical care, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Therefore, it is highly recommended to hire a personal injury attorney before accepting the insurance company’s settlement offer. These professionals have experience and can determine if the offer is fair or not.
However, it is totally up to you when you accept an offer, and hiring an attorney can greatly increase your chances of getting a fair settlement. They can negotiate with the insurance company and help you get a fair settlement for your damages and injuries.
Why should you never accept the first settlement offer?
The first settlement offer can be tempting; however, you need to determine if the offer is to your advantage. Your medical bills may be higher than you expected, and the first offer will not be sufficient to cover the expenses.
You need to understand the insurance company’s motive behind the offer. These companies only care about their own benefit. They offer the first settlement because they do not want to pay more money later.
Once you accept the offer, you will no longer be entitled to take any legal action against the insurance company.
However, if you do not think the insurer is offering you a fair settlement, you can take your case to court. According to the law, you will be compensated for all the damages resulting from your accident, including lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Knowing when to settle, when to negotiate, or when to take your care to court can be complex. Hire an attorney today!