How Do You Know If the Compensation Offered by the Insurance Firm is Fair?

 

One of the most frightening things people face after a car accident is dealing with insurance companies. You are probably upset, maybe even hurt, and you don’t know what to do. During this process, one factor to consider is whether the compensation being offered by insurance companies is fair. Many times, insurance companies propose settlements that might look all right at first impression. However, it won’t pay for all your costs and losses.

If you find yourself in this situation, it's wise to get help from car accident lawyers. Such professionals will properly analyze your case in order to determine the real worth of your claim. They can guide you through the confusing process of negotiating with insurance companies and protect your rights at every step of the process.

 

Understanding the Components of Fair Compensation

To identify whether an offer is fair, you will have to know what makes up your compensation. These are the different factors that would be considered while providing you with compensation. This may include:

 

Medical Expenses: All the expenses on treatment in the hospital, doctors' visits, medication, and other medical care in the past and to be required in the future as a result of an accident.

Lost Salaries: You must be compensated for the lost earnings if you have not reported for work following the injuries. It will also take into consideration the loss of money in the future if the injuries are permanent and you cannot perform your duties at work.

Damages to Property: Other types of compensation are the expenses incurred in repairing your car and other personal property, as well as replacement in case it is beyond repair as a result of the accident.

Understanding Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering are more difficult to value than your medical bills or lost work. It is the biggest portion of many car accident claims. It is the amount that will be compensated to you for the physical pain and emotional suffering you have experienced, and will continue to experience, because of the accident. One of the standard calculation methods insurance companies use in the valuation of pain and suffering is the multiplier method.

Considering the Long-Term Impact

A common mistake is accepting an amount that only covers your out-of-pocket expenses. A truly fair settlement would consider the long-term effects of your injuries. This might well include medical treatment in the future, future loss of income, and the effect of your injuries on your lifestyle. Do not rush to accept an offer before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and their long-term consequences.

Comparing the Offer to Your Total Damages

Once you have very clearly defined all your damages, whether economic or non-economic, compare the list of all your damages to what the insurance company is offering you. If there is a big difference between your two lists, the settlement is not fair. Insurance companies make low initial offers, since it expect negotiations.

 

Seeking Professional Advice

If you ever doubt that a settlement offer is fair, a consultation with a car accident lawyer can give you professional advice about the value of your claim and whether or not you should accept the offer. Many attorneys offer free initial consultations, so you can get this advice without up-front costs.

Negotiating for a Fair Settlement

Do not hesitate to negotiate if the initial offer seems unfair. Present proof for all of your damages and explain why, in your opinion, you deserve more compensation. Also, be warned that this process is a long one. Many cases have resulted in unfair compensation because parties tried to rush an offer acceptance.

 

Conclusion

You will need to consider all of your current and potential future damages when you are trying to decide whether an insurance company's offer is fair. Your priority should be getting the compensation amount that will comprehensively cover all your losses and provide a good way to move on with life after you have had an accident. Don't settle for unfair offers; take time to ensure you are really getting a good deal.