Georgia auto accident victims may receive prompt settlement offers from the at-fault driver's insurance company. A victim should not accept a check from the at-fault driver or his insurance company as this may be interpreted as a settlement acceptance and may prevent the victim from receiving additional compensation. A victim should consult with a Clayton County auto accident attorney before signing any release or accepting any money.
Insurance companies understand that there is no objective way to evaluate the financial value of an auto accident's legal claim. A payment should not be negotiated and made until the conclusion of accident-related medical treatment and after a physician determines future medical needs. The victim is able to calculate actual medical expenses and future therapy or costs by waiting until the doctor issues a release.
An insurance adjuster's goal is to minimize the amount the insurance company must pay. Adjusters know that a victim may be overwhelmed by an accident's financial impact. This includes medical costs, lost wages, and vehicle repairs or replacement. It is at that point when a victim seems most helpless that an adjuster has the best chance of making a settlement offer for less than the accident is worth.
Victims who quickly agree on a settlement figure may later discover that they did not receive compensation for long-term health issues. Georgia auto accident victims may need expensive rehabilitative therapy or they may suffer permanent disabilities that impact their earning capacity. Victims should see a physician for a full medical exam before considering any settlement offer.
Insurance representatives may encourage victims to accept a one-time payment or to sign a settlement without the use of an attorney. Accident victims should disregard this advice as it may jeopardize the right to a full and fair recovery. Contacting the Law Office of Shane Smith will ensure that a victim receives reasonable compensation for his injuries. Once a victim has secured an attorney's services the victim should not talk to the at-fault driver, the driver's attorneys, or his insurance representatives. All communication with anyone representing the at-fault driver should be done by the victim's attorney.
If you or someone you know has been hurt in an auto accident, meet with a Clayton County auto accident lawyer. Call Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656 to schedule a free legal consultation.