What to Do Before Accepting a Settlement Offer
The implications of agreeing to a liability release as part of a settlement can be significant. For instance, if you discover that your injuries were worse than you initially thought, it may be too late. That’s why it’s so important that you take all the necessary steps to protect your rights before signing the waiver. This includes:
- Seeking medical attention: After your accident, visit a medical professional who can help diagnose your injuries. It’s not uncommon to have delayed symptoms after an injury, and it may not be until days, months, or even years later that you start to feel pain and discomfort. By then, you may have already signed the waiver and it will be too late. Likewise, not seeking medical attention right away can appear to the insurance company that you weren’t all that injured in the first place.
- Explore future medical needs: While it may not be possible to know exactly what medical treatment you might need going forward, a medical expert will be able to evaluate your situation and anticipate future medical needs. This estimated dollar figure should be included in the settlement.
- Consider the economic effects of your injury: If your injury affects the quality of your life, prevents you from working, or puts you through emotional and psychological pain, you’re entitled to pursue compensation that adequately covers the costs associated with any long-term effects you may face.
Ultimately, it would be beneficial for you to slow down and take the appropriate steps to fully assess the value of your injuries before hastily signing any forms. No matter where you stand, it would be in your best interest to seek the advice of an expert personal injury attorney. Having a lawyer on your side who has experience helping other accident victims will provide you with a better sense of the value of your claim.