Why You Should Consult an Attorney Before Accepting a Personal Injury Settlement
After suffering an injury in an accident because of another party’s negligence, you can recover damages from the negligent party. Because of the financial hardship that comes after an accident, it may be tempting to accept the first settlement offer from the at-fault party’s insurance company. However, it is crucial that you do not rush into accepting a personal injury settlement. Indeed, that money could come in handy. For example, you could pay some of your medical expenses and make up for your lost wages. You could even use the money to get some help with house chores. However, it is not a good idea for you to be too quick to accept a personal injury settlement. You should speak to an attorney before taking a personal injury settlement.
There are several crucial reasons to talk to an attorney before accepting a personal injury settlement. Below, we share some of the main reasons you should consult an attorney before accepting a personal injury settlement;
The Insurance Company Is Not Your Friend
The top priority for the negligent party’s insurance company is to protect the insurance company’s interests. While the insurance company might try to make you believe they have your back, the truth is that they don’t. Insurance adjusters may sound sympathetic, fair, and even friendly. But the reality is that they are looking for ways to convince you to accept a minimal settlement before you know the extent of your injuries and the full value of your claim. It is important that you consult an attorney because the insurance company may be taking advantage of your vulnerability. An attorney can represent your best interests, so while the insurance adjuster is working against you, your attorney will be working for you.
You May Have Additional Sources of Compensation
The insurance adjuster from the at-fault party’s insurance company may not inform you of all the ways you can recover compensation. A qualified personal injury attorney can help you understand any additional sources of compensation that may be available to you before you accept a settlement from the at-fault party’s insurance company.
After Accepting a Settlement, You Have No Further Recourse
It is vital that you speak to a qualified attorney before accepting a personal injury settlement and signing a release because once you accept a settlement and sign a waiver form, you cannot ask for additional compensation down the road. A skilled attorney can evaluate your case, calculate the value of your damages, and advise you on whether the settlement offer is fair or not before you accept it. If the attorney advises that you don’t take the settlement offer but instead proceed with your case, they will handle negotiations on your behalf and, if need be, fight for the compensation you deserve in front of a judge and jury.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve suffered an injury due to another party’s negligence and have received a settlement offer from the at-fault party’s insurance company, speak to one of our West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm. We can assess your case and evaluate the settlement offer before you accept it. Our attorneys can ensure you do not settle for less than you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Ocala, Jacksonville, Naples, Melbourne, Tampa, and Miami areas.
