Why You Shouldn’t Accept A Quick Insurance Settlement After A Crash

Should you be in a car accident, you may quickly hear from the other driver’s insurance company, possibly within hours or days of the crash. While a quick settlement offer may seem convenient, it’s often far from fair. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to resolve claims quickly and cheaply, not to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries and losses.

Before you sign anything or accept any money, know that there are steps you can take to protect your rights. Speak with a Miami personal injury lawyer who has the skills to help you fight for the full value of your claim. It’s your recovery, don’t settle for less.

The True Cost of Settling Too Soon

After an accident, especially one involving injuries, insurers often act fast. You may get a call from a claims adjuster offering a settlement before you’ve even had time to see a doctor or get your car repaired. This is by design. Here’s why:

• Limiting payouts. If you accept an early offer, you usually waive your right to seek additional compensation, even if new injuries or expenses arise later.
• Avoiding legal action. Quick settlements are a tactic to prevent you from hiring a lawyer who could increase the value of your claim.
• Preying on stress. After an accident, you may be dealing with pain and emotional distress. Insurance companies hope you’ll take any money offered and just to move on.

Accident injuries don’t always show up right away. A back or neck injury may worsen over time. What seems like minor pain today could lead to long-term physical therapy, lost income, or even surgery down the line. If you’ve already accepted a settlement, you’ll be stuck covering these costs out of pocket.

For example, a driver with mild neck pain following a rear-end crash may accept $5,000 just days after the accident. Then, weeks later, they may be diagnosed with a herniated disc and need months of physical therapy, care that would not be covered because the case was already closed.

Best Practices for Securing a Maximum Settlement

To ensure you receive the compensation you truly deserve after a Miami car accident, don’t rush. Take time to be aware of the full extent of your injuries and damages. Let medical professionals evaluate your condition thoroughly. Also, keep records of medical treatment, expenses, missed work, and how your injuries affect your daily life.

Avoiding recorded statements is also key. Politely decline to give recorded interviews to insurance companies, tell them you need to speak with your attorney first. An experienced Miami personal injury lawyer can assess the value of your claim, negotiate on your behalf, and protect you from lowball offers.

Are you considering a settlement offer? Accepting a quick insurance settlement might seem like a relief, but it often comes at a steep cost. Your injuries, your future, and your financial stability matter. Talk to the attorneys at Spencer Morgan Law about how to pursue justice and compensation under product liability and personal injury laws. Call 305-423-3800 to book a confidential consultation.