When a car accident insurance settlement offer is made, victims do not have to accept the first offer. It is often possible to increase settlement insurance claim offers when certain steps are taken. This is especially so if the insured feels the amount suggested by the insurance company is too low to cover the actual damages in the case.
Disputing a settlement offer can take some work on the part of the insured, but it can pay off. When the right documentation is presented and the correct channels are followed, the injured may be able to increase the settlement insurance claim amount.
Who to Address
If a settlement offer is unacceptable, the insured will first want to bring up the issue with the claim adjuster in the case. This should be done in writing and should include documentation to support the dispute. The types of information that can bolster a request to increase the amount include:
- A detailed summary of expenses already paid by the insurance company to acknowledge what has already been paid out against the total policy limits.
- All estimates for any property damage work that has yet to be repaired or replaced, i.e., vehicle repair estimates.
- Medical reports that document injuries involved, their severity and the estimated recovery timeframe.
- Medical documentation to support the need of continued care, treatments or medications, if applicable.
- Medical documentation to support any claims for continued loss of wages.
The more detailed the dispute request is, generally the better. Medical documentation, including reports, copies of tests and prognosis can prove crucial for bolstering pain and suffering and continued medical care payment amounts.
Where to go Next
If initial efforts to increase the settlement insurance claim offer is rejected, the insured party does have the right to appeal beyond the insurance adjuster on the case. Send the letter up the chain to the adjuster’s direct supervisor. Those in supervisory positions are often in better positions to offer a higher settlement amount.
Keep Policy Limits in Mind
Policy limits do play a large role in settlement offers. Insurance companies are only liable up to the limit amount and will not pay out beyond this threshold. Keeping this in mind is important when requesting a higher settlement.
Legal Guidance is Essential
Accident victims are often best served by hiring legal representation to increase settlement claim offers. A reputable attorney will know how to prove the worthiness of a claim and will understand the steps to take to dispute an initial offer. An attorney will also be able to bring suit against an insurance company if the final offer made still does not meet a client’s requirements. It is often best for accident victims to consult with an attorney for advice immediately following a crash to be certain their claims are handled properly from day one.
