What should you do if you disagree with an accident settlement?

On Behalf of | Jan 15, 2025 | Motor Vehicle Accidents |

Long Island and the rest of New York City are plagued by accidents, from relatively minor fender-benders to crashes that cause catastrophic injuries.

Unfortunately, insurance companies can fail to pay up, leaving the injured without sufficient compensation to help them recover and move on. You do not have to accept an unfair settlement. Consider taking these steps after a lowball offer.

Check your policy

First, take a close look at your insurance policy, familiarizing yourself with the coverage options under New York’s no-fault accident laws. You should also make certain you have fulfilled all necessary requirements to maintain your eligibility for coverage.

Study the settlement offer

Next, scrutinize the settlement proposal, cross-referencing the offered compensation with your actual expenses. These can include medical bills, lost income and other related costs. Pinpoint any gaps or inconsistencies that could warrant higher compensation.

Assess the evidence

Go over the evidence you submitted with your accident claim to ensure it is comprehensive. Examples include medical records, police reports, visual evidence and witness statements. Identify and fill in any gaps in the documentation to strengthen your case for a higher settlement.

Communicate with the insurer

Reach out to the insurance company to inform them of your disagreement with the settlement offer. Present your evidence and clearly explain why you believe the offer is insufficient. Professional and detailed communication is often the key to negotiating a better settlement.

Potential paths to fair compensation

If talks fail, alternative dispute resolution options such as mediation or arbitration could facilitate a prompt resolution. If you are still unsatisfied, it may be time to get experienced legal guidance.

Archives

Categories