After an accident of any kind, you can become quickly overwhelmed. Insurance companies may contact you with a pushy settlement offer that seems like a quick and easy solution to your troubles. However, many accident victims in Atlanta often wonder if they should accept this offer or if hiring a personal injury lawyer is necessary. A personal injury lawyer from Scott Pryor Law can help you to make an informed and educated decision, especially if you’re unsure the settlement offer reflects the true value of your case.
What is a Fair Settlement After an Accident?
When an insurance company offers you a settlement, it’s tempting to accept it and move on. However, the settlement amount is often much lower than what you may be entitled to. Insurance companies aim to pay the least amount possible, which means that their initial offer may not fully cover the costs related to medical expenses, current and expected lost wages, or pain and suffering caused by the accident.
A personal injury attorney can assess whether the insurance company’s offer is fair. They understand the complexities of personal injury claims. They can calculate the full extent of damages, ensuring that your settlement truly compensates you for the accident's immediate and long-term effects. Hiring a personal injury lawyer could increase your chances of securing a better deal.
Why Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer Matters
After an accident, emotions can run high. While you may be eager to settle quickly, it’s important to remember that a settlement offer made by an insurance company might not be in your best interest. A personal injury attorney can step in to protect your rights and ensure you’re not taken advantage of.
- Experience with Negotiations: Insurance companies have skilled adjusters trained to offer low settlements. A personal injury lawyer has negotiation experience and can handle these situations effectively, often securing a higher settlement.
- In-depth Knowledge of the Law: Personal injury law is complex, and without proper legal guidance, it’s easy to overlook important aspects of your claim. An attorney will understand Georgia’s laws and how they apply to your case, providing valuable insight into whether a settlement offer is reasonable.
- Access to Resources: Attorneys often have access to resources such as accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and investigators who can strengthen your case. They can help prove the full extent of your injuries and the liability of the other party, which can significantly influence the outcome of your claim.
When Should You Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer in Atlanta?
There are several situations in which hiring a personal injury attorney is strongly recommended, even after receiving a settlement offer.
- The Offer Doesn’t Reflect the True Value of Your Claim: If you feel that the settlement offer doesn’t cover your medical expenses, lost wages, or the pain and suffering you’ve experienced, it’s time to consult an attorney.
- Your Injuries Are Serious or Long-Term: If you’ve suffered serious injuries or expect long-term medical treatment, the settlement offer may not account for future expenses. An attorney can help ensure your settlement includes compensation for future care and medical costs.
- Liability Is Disputed: In cases where liability and fault are unclear or the insurance company denies liability, a personal injury lawyer can fight for you. They can help establish who is responsible for the accident and gather the evidence to strengthen your claim.
Signs You Should Not Accept the Initial Settlement Offer
Sometimes, the first offer from an insurance company may seem appealing, but there are several signs it may not be in your best interest.
- Your injuries aren’t fully healed: If you’ve not reached maximum medical improvement or your recovery timeline is uncertain, the settlement may be too low.
- The offer doesn’t account for non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, emotional trauma, PTSD, and other non-economic damages can be just as significant as your medical bills. Insurance companies may not always offer compensation for these.
- You haven’t consulted a personal injury lawyer: If you’ve never spoken to a legal professional about your case, you may miss out on critical advice. Many personal injury attorneys do offer a free consultation to discuss your claim.
What You Should Do Next
If you’ve been offered an insurance company settlement offer after an accident in Atlanta and are unsure whether it’s enough, contact a personal injury attorney. With their expertise, you’ll better understand your legal rights and the potential value of your claim. A personal injury lawyer can help you find your way through this complex process, negotiate with the insurance company, and ultimately secure a fair settlement.
