Being severely injured because someone else was reckless is an experience that no one should have to go through. Unfortunately, it’s a regular occurrence in East Texas.
Being unable to work and provide for your family while medical expenses and household bills pile up can leave you frustrated and stressed. So when the negligent party’s insurance company finally presents a settlement, it’s easy to understand why you would be eager to accept.
You may not have the full picture yet
While the offer from the insurance company may seem like a windfall, it’s rarely in your best interest to accept it. In addition to covering medical bills, settlements should account for the full impact of the accident, including:
- Ongoing medical treatment, which may include surgery and therapy
- Lost wages during recovery
- The possibility of reduced earning capacity if your injury has left you unable to return to your previous line of work
- Chronic pain and suffering
After a catastrophic accident, it may be weeks or months before you realize the full scope of your injuries and the long-term consequences they may have on your life. A traumatic brain injury or damage to the spinal cord can have long-term implications and require specialized care.
The initial offer from the insurance adjustor likely won’t reflect the long-term impact of your injuries. By accepting too quickly, you will find yourself unable to pursue additional compensation at a later time when you desperately need it.
Insurance adjusters may not have the full information they need when making the initial offer. However, they are also a business that’s concerned about their bottom line. Therefore, they may try to pressure you to accept the settlement quickly.
You need to work with someone who will review the settlement, along with your medical records and police report. They understand an insurance company’s different tactics and will be ready to negotiate on your behalf.