According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), more than 30,000 people are hurt in motor vehicle collisions in the state each year. Following a crash, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. These claims are generally defended by insurers. You should not accept the insurance company’s settlement offer without speaking to an attorney. Here, our Charleston car accident lawyer highlights the key things to know about taking the insurance company’s offer after a crash in South Carolina.
Key Point: Do Not Rush Into an Insurance Company Offer After a Car Accident
Car accidents are stressful. Right after a collision, the insurance company (yours or the other driver’s) may present you with a settlement offer. It can seem tempting to take it and put the accident behind you, especially if you are facing medical bills and vehicle repair costs.
Here is the problem: That initial offer is almost always far below what you truly deserve. Insurance adjusters are incentivized to minimize payouts, not to ensure you are fully compensated for your damages. Accepting too soon could lock you into a deal that does not leave room to get full and fair financial compensation.
You Need a Settlement that Provides Full and Fair Financial Compensation
Following a crash, it is imperative that you have access to the full available compensation. Do not let an insurance company pressure you into accepting a settlement for less. In South Carolina, auto accident victims have the right to seek compensation for both economic losses and non-economic losses. Along with other damages, you may be able to recover for:
- Property loss, such as vehicle repairs;
- Ambulance costs and emergency room care;
- Hospital bills and other medical expenses;
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation care;
- Loss of wages and loss of earning power;
- Pain and suffering and mental distress;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
A word of caution for car accident victims in South Carolina is that insurance companies often calculate compensation using formulas that focus on clear-cut items like medical bills and car repair. However, non-economic damages, including pain and suffering, are often undervalued. Insurance companies will use any excuse that they can find to pay out less.
Do You Need a Lawyer to Review Your Insurance Settlement Offer?
Yes. In South Carolina, legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. There are many ways in which an attorney can help. To start, your South Carolina car accident lawyer can help you determine the true value of your case. Beyond that, your lawyer can develop a negotiation strategy focused on holding the insurance company accountable.
Schedule a Free Case Review With Our Charleston Car Accident Lawyer
At Query Sautter & Uricchio, LLC, our Charleston auto accident attorney puts victims and families first. If you have any questions about insurance settlement negotiations, we can help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case review. With an office in Charleston, we represent car accident victims throughout the surrounding region in South Carolina.