If you’ve been in a car accident in Illinois, dealing with an insurance company is usually the last thing you want to do. When the other driver’s insurance company makes an offer, it might be tempting to accept the offer and be done with it. This might be the easiest short-term solution, but it can end up costing you in the long run. Here’s why you should be prepared to negotiate with the insurance company.
Why Shouldn't You Accept the Insurance Company's First Offer?
One of the reasons people pay for car insurance is that it can compensate the other driver in the end of a motor vehicle accident. Without insurance, the other driver might sue you, and then you’d be trying to pay for their injuries out of pocket. However, most insurance companies are reluctant to pay the full amount that owed. They don’t exist to help drivers; they exist to make money through monthly premiums.
As a result, it’s important not to accept the insurance company’s first offer. You might wish to talk to an attorney so that you can figure out how much you’re owed. Once you’ve figured out the right amount, you can make your counteroffer. The other driver’s insurance company might decide to accept your claim. If they deny your claim, you might have a lawsuit on your hands, which is another reason you may want to hire an attorney.
In some situations, you might have to negotiate with your own insurance company. For example, if the other driver didn’t have great insurance, you may not receive a large payout. As a result, you might have to file an underinsured driver claim with your insurance company to receive more compensation.
How Might an Attorney Help You Through the Process?
An attorney may be able to protect you from insurance companies after a motor vehicle accident. Your attorney may warn you if the other driver’s insurance company is making an unfair offer and help you make a suitable counteroffer. Additionally, your attorney might represent you if the case ends up going to court. An attorney may also be able to help you sue for damages if the other driver doesn’t have insurance.