As an injured accident victim, there are steps that you can take to protect yourself legally and financially during the insurance claims process. You should not agree to give an insurance claims adjuster a recorded statement during conversations about your accident, for example, or sign anything sent to you from the insurer. You also should not admit fault for the accident or accept the first settlement offered. The first offer is often lower than what the claimant deserves, as an attempt by the insurer to avoid paying fair compensation.
If you receive a low insurance settlement offer, contact a personal injury lawyer before responding. A lawyer can review the offer to confirm that it is lower than you deserve. Then, your lawyer can help you craft a concise and effective counteroffer to send to the insurance company. Your lawyer will negotiate back and forth with the insurance company for as long as it takes to receive a fair and full settlement offer. This process may require steps such as submitting further evidence, attending independent medical examinations and mediation.
If negotiations with an insurance company do not result in a fair settlement, a lawyer will have the power to take your case to trial. A personal injury trial in Colorado may result in a judgment award granted by a jury that is worth more than an insurance settlement. An attorney can carefully review your case and circumstances, then choose the best route to maximize your financial recovery.