Tips for Negotiating a Settlement After a Car Crash in Lake County

 Posted on April 17, 2023 in Car Accidents

Car crashes can lead to head injuries, neck injuries, internal organ damage, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, burns, and lasting emotional trauma. Victims of car accidents may be entitled to compensation for the damages caused by the accident. Auto insurance is designed to cover accident-related expenses. However, many people who get into a crash soon realize that insurance companies make it very difficult to secure the compensation they need. One of the most challenging parts of securing compensation after a crash is negotiating a settlement with the insurance company.

If you or a loved one were hurt in a car crash in the Waukegan area, consider working with a car crash injury lawyer who can communicate with the insurance company and negotiate a settlement that covers your losses.

Recognize that the Insurance Company is Not Your Friend

Insurance adjusters are employed by the insurance company. They are going to look after the insurance company’s interests before your interests. Just like any other business, insurance companies want to make money. This means that they may use various tactics to try to undervalue your claim.

Do Not Take the Blame for the Accident

Car accidents are chaotic, to say the least. Even if you knew that you were daydreaming just before the accident or could have possibly contributed to the accident, do not admit fault. You do not have all of the information at this time and admitting or even implying that you are at fault for the crash could dramatically impact your case.

Do Not Underestimate Your Injuries

Many people make the mistake of underestimating their injuries after a crash. They may be used to powering through pain or disregarding seemingly minor injuries in their everyday lives. However, doing this after a car accident could endanger your health as well as your settlement. Some injuries, such as spine injuries and traumatic brain injuries have delayed symptoms. Get checked out by a medical professional before assuming that you are uninjured or telling the insurance company that you are uninjured.

Do Not Take the First Offer

Insurance companies are often overloaded with cases and they want to resolve cases as soon as possible. Because of this, they may encourage you to accept a settlement right away. However, it takes time to calculate the full extent of the damages caused by a crash. If you accept the first settlement and later realize that your damages exceed the amount the insurance company offered, you will not be able to go back and change it. This is why it is generally advised to consult with a car accident injury lawyer who can help you calculate your damages and pursue the maximum amount of compensation.

Contact our Waukegan Car Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one were hurt in a car accident, contact Salvi & Maher, LLP for help. Our skilled Waukegan personal injury attorneys can help you negotiate a settlement with the insurance company, or if needed, represent you during a personal injury lawsuit. Call 847-662-3303 for a free initial consultation.