Recovering compensation from insurance companies after automobile accidents is a tricky business if you’re not experienced in the negotiation process. Insurance adjusters are skilled in finding ways to keep payouts low for personal injury and property damage claims. The following tips might help you strike a better deal when making or considering settlement offers for your claim.    

How to Negotiate Settlements of Automobile Accidents

1. Know What You Want

By adding up all your receipts, bills, estimates, medical records, and missed work documentation, you should have a roughly accurate idea of what your claim is worth and know how much you want for it. You’re entitled to recover for economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages, as well as for noneconomic damages, including pain and suffering. Start high, ask for more than you want, and know the lowest amount you’re willing to accept.     

2. Let the Adjuster Speak First

When negotiating claims for automobile accidents, the insurance adjuster is your adversary. You operate from a stronger position if you let the adjuster state the first figure. If they ask you to go first, resist the urge to reveal your number. Be courteous, but say it’s their job to evaluate claims and ask what they think your claim is worth.

3. Remember Policy Limits

When determining what to ask, always keep in mind policy limits. The insurer has coverage limits that they can’t exceed. Ask for this information in your demand letter. Be persistent about accessing this information. If they simply say that there’s insufficient coverage, insist that they tell you the precise amount, as this can impact the amount you request. 

If the above tactics aren’t effective after an automobile accident, turn to Stephen B. Kaufman, P.C. in the Bronx for skilled negotiations. Born and raised in New York, this skilled personal injury lawyer offers professional representation to residents of the community that has been his home for more than 40 years. Knowledgeable and passionate about getting the most for his clients, he has a strong record of successful outcomes. For a free no-obligation consultation appointment, fill out the form on his website now or call (718) 822-0500.