How to Get the Most Money in Auto Settlements
- 1). The first and most basic action you should take is not to admit any level of fault at the scene. Many car accidents happen very quickly, often before you even realise you may be in danger, and admission of fault or blame may damage any claim you have for auto settlements money.
- 2). Insurance companies are not necessarily interested in what may be deemed fair or unfair. In negotiating auto settlements they may try to offer as little money as possible and still stay within the letter of the law. You should understand from the outset that whilst they are required by law to investigate your claim they will wish to spend as little money as possible.
- 3). You don't have to accept the first auto settlements that are offered to you. If you believe your claim deserves more money than is initially on offer, you are within your rights to say so.
- 4). Be wary of accepting auto settlements too quickly, particularly in cases where you need to claim for the vehicle involved as well as for physical injuries. If you accept early settlements which cover all claims, you may be damaging your claim for extra money for your injuries.
- 5). Each state will have its own particular laws regarding insurance and auto settlements. In order to claim all the money that is due to you after an accident, you need to tread carefully, take your time, not allow yourself to be bullied or hurried, and research the law regarding auto settlements in your particular state.
- 6). If you hire a specialist lawyer to fight your claim for auto settlements be prepared to take his or her advice when it comes time to settle. You may be offered more money by agreeing to an out of court settlement as trials can be unpredictable.