Why You Should Never Settle with Insurance Before Speaking to a Lawyer

After an accident, accepting an insurance company’s first settlement offer may seem like the quickest way to move forward.  Medical bills are piling up, missed work has affected your income, and you may be eager to put the ordeal behind you.

At Lowenthal & Abrams, Injury Attorneys, P.C., we understand these pressures. However, accepting a settlement too soon could leave you with far less compensation than you need to cover your losses. Discover why you should never settle with an insurance company before speaking with a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer.

Why Are Insurance Companies’ Initial Offers Typically Low?

Adjusters have a job to do: protect their company’s bottom line. This is why insurers aim to resolve claims as quickly and cheaply as possible. The first offer you receive is almost always lower than your claim’s true value, as it is merely a starting point.

A skilled lawyer can make all the difference. This partnership forces the insurance company to take your claim seriously by putting the legal leverage to sue in front of them. An attorney will accurately calculate their client’s actual losses and long-term costs of the accident to support their claim with concrete evidence. They will also navigate negotiations to ensure an injured party’s compensation is not shortchanged.

Preserve the Right to Future Compensation

When you sign an insurance release agreement to accept a payout, the provider permanently closes the claim. If you require surprise surgeries, physical therapy, or prolonged time off work in the future, you cannot go back and ask the adjuster for more money. As injuries worsen or ongoing medical care becomes necessary, a lawyer will ensure you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) before finalizing any payout.

A Lawyer Protects Against Insurance’s Tricky Tactics

Adjusters often use your words against you to minimize or deny a payout. They may ask for a recorded statement right after an accident, hoping the injured party will inadvertently admit partial fault or downplay their pain. They know that you are particularly vulnerable during this timeframe, and they will push to take advantage of the situation. Instead of settling with insurance, a lawyer handles all communications and will shield you from manipulative questions and high-pressure tactics.

Speak to an Attorney Before You Settle with Insurance

Before accepting a settlement offer from an insurance company, speak with the experienced team at  Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. We can review your case, explain your legal options, and help protect your right to seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Scheduling a free consultation is the first step. Meet with our personal injury attorneys to discuss your accident and learn how we can help. In the meantime, avoid signing any documents or accepting any settlement offers until you have had the opportunity to receive legal guidance.