Though you may have the right to pursue legal action against individuals who cause a collision that results in your injury, the majority of these accidents actually end up a negotiated settlement outside of the courtroom. In a number of cases, you will likely be contacted by the responsible party's insurance company before you have a chance to speak to a personal injury attorney. To ensure that you get the compensation that you deserve after being injured in an accident, it is important that you know the answers to some commonly asked questions regarding personal injury settlements. Read on to learn more.

What Should a Settlement Cover?

If you have never settled before, you may not be familiar with what a personal injury settlement should consist of. Any settlement should cover your medical expenses, which includes your existing and future treatment, as well as any lost wages, past and future. An attorney may demand that you be compensated for the trauma that you experienced, pain and suffering, and other non-economic damages.

Should You Simply Accept the Offer From the Insurance Company?

When you are dealing with the insurance company, make sure to remember that their sole interest is to protect their bottom line as opposed to your interests and well-being. The first offer that they provide you is unlikely to cover everything that you need it to cover, such as wages and medical bills, so it is not recommended to accept it, as a general rule. However, you should talk to an attorney before doing anything.

What Happens If a Fair Settlement Offer Doesn't Hit the Table?

It is not uncommon for insurance companies to deny 100 percent valid and legitimate claims. In addition to denying good claims, insurance companies may also try to shift the blame from their clients or try to make offers that will not fully cover your damages. This is all sad but true. In situations like these, it is beneficial to have a personal injury attorney on your side who has the experience necessary to move forward with a lawsuit and pursue the compensation that you are entitled to after the accident.

When you have been injured in an accident due to the reckless actions of another individual, you may have the legal right to hold them responsible by pursuing legal action against them. While it is possible to settle the claim outside of court in some cases, it may not be possible in your case. Talk to a personal injury attorney today about the details of your case.

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