Insurance companies want to pay out as little as possible on accident claims, which is why working with an injury lawyer is so important. If you experience an injury and a claims adjuster offers a quick settlement, examine it closely to ensure it is large enough. The following questions will help you evaluate whether to take the offer or ask for more. 

What to Ask About Settlement Offers

1. Is the Offer Enough to Cover all Medical Expenses?

Medical expenses are more than doctor and hospital bills. Costs of therapy sessions, prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, and transportation to and from medical appointments count as expenses. Include items you had to rent or purchase, such as a wheelchair, walker, or crutches. The offer might not include in-home care costs, such as for a visiting physical therapist or practical nurse, and future expenses.  

2. Are Past & Future Lost Wages & Income Included?

Your settlement should compensate you for all income lost due to the accident, including part-time work and self-employment. If you can’t work or are earning less due to the injuries, those losses also count. Personal injury lawyers help their clients calculate lost future earnings.    

3. Does the Amount Cover Pain & Suffering Adequately?

An offer that is not much higher than your total medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage is not considering your pain and suffering. Personal injury attorneys negotiating settlements often total the losses, and then multiply the total by a number to determine compensation for pain and suffering. An injury lawyer will help you calculate how much your claim is worth.  

Accepting a settlement for your injuries may cut off your claim rights forever. Before you decide, seek counsel from injury lawyers at Kidwell & Gallagher in Elko, NV. For almost 20 years these accident lawyers have served Elko County residents, fighting successfully so their clients receive compensation after getting hurt. Whether you need a workers’ compensation or personal injury lawyer, this dedicated legal team has the experience to advise and the passion to represent you effectively. Visit their website for more about their services. Follow their Facebook for more insight and call (775) 738-9877 to schedule a consultation.