How to Negotiate a Car Accident Injury Claim

If one has been injured in a car accident, one may seek to file a claim with the other driver’s automobile insurance company.  Frequently, the other driver’s insurance company will offer a settlement of the claim.  However, the initial settlement offer is typically low and frequently unfair.  Consequently, negotiation with the insurer may be necessary in order to obtain a fair and equitable settlement.

Preparation for Negotiations

In order to negotiate the most beneficial settlement, it is crucial to be prepared to negotiate with the insurance adjuster.  Therefore, one must have a full and complete understanding of the actual accident and all relevant documentation and paperwork which supports one’s claim.  This includes photographs of the scene, police reports, witness statements, medical bills, vehicle repair bills and any other related documentation.  In addition, one should calculate damages for projected medical expenses, loss of earning capacity and any other future projected losses.

Negotiations of a Car Accident Injury Claim

Once the negotiations begin, it is important to be cognizant that the insurance adjuster is typically authorized to settle a claim within a particular range; an insurance adjuster will normally begin a settlement negotiation by offering the lowest possible amount to settle a claim.  One should work with the adjuster in negotiating back and forth, providing supporting documentation whenever and wherever possible to support the increase in the settlement amount until an acceptable amount is obtained.

How an Attorney Can Assist in Negotiating a Car Accident Injury Claim

Negotiations in a car accident injury claim can be complicated; thus, one may seek to obtain the services of an experienced attorney when seeking to settle the matter.  In addition, if one has already tried to obtain an acceptable settlement but has been unsuccessful, one may seek to retain an attorney who can intervene and obtain a favorable result. A seasoned car accident injury attorney can examine the evidence and use the evidence to determine a fair settlement amount. In addition, the attorney can thereafter work to settle the matter or, if necessary, commence a private lawsuit against the negligent driver who caused the car accident.