After a car accident, dealing with insurance companies can be one of the most frustrating parts of the process. Often, the initial settlement offer may seem like a quick way to put the incident behind you. However, in many cases, insurance companies tend to offer lowball amounts that fall far short of covering the full scope of your damages. If you’re not sure whether your settlement offer is adequate, it’s crucial to understand the signs that indicate your compensation is too low. If you feel unsure, it’s a good idea to consult with a car accident lawyer in Denver to ensure you’re getting what you deserve.
Car accident victims can feel overwhelmed during this time. You may be dealing with a mountain of medical bills, lost income, and ongoing pain from your injuries. Insurance companies are often more focused on their bottom line than on fair compensation for your suffering. This is where a Denver car accident lawyer can help by fighting for a fair settlement. Let’s explore the common signs that your settlement offer may be too low.
Low Initial Offer or Fast Settlements
One of the most obvious signs that your settlement offer is too low is receiving a fast, lowball offer from the insurance company. Insurance adjusters are skilled at quickly making offers that seem reasonable but are actually much lower than what you are entitled to. Their goal is to get you to accept the settlement as quickly as possible, often before you’ve fully understood the full extent of your injuries or financial losses.
Insurance companies know that many accident victims are eager to move on with their lives, especially when they are facing medical bills and lost income. By making a low offer early in the process, they hope you will accept it out of desperation. However, you should always take the time to thoroughly assess your situation before agreeing to any settlement.
Medical Expenses Aren’t Fully Covered
Another sign your settlement may be too low is if it doesn’t cover your current or future medical expenses. Car accidents can result in both short-term and long-term injuries. If your settlement doesn’t account for long-term medical care, ongoing therapy, or potential surgeries, it’s likely not enough.
Many injuries, especially those involving the spine, brain, or soft tissue, can require months or even years of treatment. It’s essential that your settlement offer takes into account the full scope of your medical needs. A Denver car accident lawyer can help ensure that the insurance company includes future medical costs when evaluating your claim.
Some red flags your settlement is too low can include:
- Settlement does not include projected medical expenses for the future
- The offer does not account for lost wages or lost earning potential
- Insufficient funds to cover your pain and suffering
Insurance Company Disputing Liability
In many cases, insurance companies may dispute liability to reduce the amount they owe you. If the insurance company is questioning who is at fault or downplaying the severity of the accident, they might be attempting to lower their payout to you. Even if the other driver was clearly at fault, insurance companies may attempt to dispute liability in order to save money.
If liability is being disputed, your settlement offer could be unfairly reduced or delayed. Insurance companies often try to cast doubt on the facts of the accident, even if the evidence is clear. Working with a skilled Denver car accident lawyer can help refute these tactics and ensure the responsible party is held accountable.
Denial of Claims or Delayed Payments
Another sign of a lowball offer is when the insurance company is unwilling to pay for your claims in a timely manner. If they delay your payment or outright deny your claim, this is a clear attempt to pressure you into accepting a lower settlement. Some insurance companies may deny or undercut your claim by arguing that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim or that they were pre-existing.
Be wary of situations where they don’t immediately agree to cover the costs of long-term care or medical rehabilitation. Delaying payments or trying to minimize your injuries are red flags that the settlement offer you’re being given may not be sufficient. A Denver car accident lawyer will have experience in these situations and can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Pressured to Settle Quickly
If the insurance company is pressuring you to accept a settlement offer quickly, that’s another warning sign. Insurance companies push to settle cases quickly, especially if the victim is not well-versed in personal injury law. By rushing you into a decision, they hope you’ll accept a low offer before you have time to fully assess the impact of the accident on your life.
Take your time to review the full extent of your injuries, how they might affect your quality of life, and the long-term financial consequences. Rushed decisions rarely lead to fair compensation, and insurance companies are well aware of this. A Denver car accident lawyer can ensure you aren’t coerced into a premature and unfair settlement.
Speak with a Denver Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’re concerned that your settlement is too low or unfair, it’s time to take action. Contact a Denver car accident lawyer to look over your case and make sure you’re receiving the compensation you deserve. With professional legal assistance, you can fight back against insurance companies and get a fair settlement. Don’t settle for less – reach out to an expert today.
