Quick Settlement Options for Personal Injury Claims
Personal injury claims can cause victims an extreme amount of physical pain, mental trauma, and financial stress. In many cases, victims are unable to cover their financial obligations while they recover and try to hold the negligent party accountable—but creditors don’t care about that. That’s why getting a quick settlement is often an accident victim’s top priority. Working with the right personal injury lawyer can make this step a little easier.
At Ewaniszyk Law Firm, we know that victims are at a disadvantage when they try to negotiate a fair and full settlement. Insurance companies are very good at paying as little as possible—and even paying nothing in some situations. Led by attorney Richard M. Ewansizyk, we know what it takes to hold insurance companies accountable and demand fair compensation. Find out how we can help you by calling us at 760-245-7310 now.
Pros and Cons of Quick Settlements
Before you accept the first settlement offer made to you by the other party’s insurance company, it’s important to know exactly what you’re agreeing to and what risks you are taking. There are benefits, of course. A quick settlement allows you to cover your expenses while you are unable to work and alleviates the stress of negotiating with insurance companies. However, you must also consider the downsides. Insurance companies tend to offer a quick settlement when they want to sweep a matter under the rug. They likely know their client is at fault, and they want you to sign away your right to sue before you know how serious your injuries are. See, when you accept a settlement, you also sign a waiver. This waiver bars you from suing them in the future for any injuries or losses related to the accident in question. Even if you discover your injuries are far more serious than expected, you have no legal recourse. That’s why it’s important to hire a personal injury attorney sooner rather than later.
Knowing the Value of Your Claim
You must know the true value of your claim before you even consider accepting a quick settlement. Now, know that your claim’s value isn’t necessarily what you should expect Roget during negotiations or in court; there’s generally a trade-off to give you the certainty of receiving some compensation without the risk of court. However, you also don’t want to settle for a value so far below your claim’s value that you cannot cover your expenses. This is why we recommend working with a personal injury lawyer—they can provide useful guidance regarding how much your claim is worth and what type of compensation you should fight for.
When a Quick Settlement May Be the Right Choice
Some cases are very cut-and-dry. It’s obvious who’s at fault and how much the other party deserves from a settlement, and there’s not much for the two sides to fight over. In these scenarios, a quick settlement may be possible as long as the at-fault party is willing to be fair. This allows both sides to settle the case, close the door on that chapter, and move forward.
A quick settlement may also be a good option if your injuries have reached maximum medical improvement and your personal injury law firm has a clear view of your claim’s worth. If your injuries are no longer in question, you don’t have to worry about them suddenly worsening or becoming more complex.
Alternatives to a Quick Settlement
If a quick settlement isn’t possible but you still need money to get by until your personal injury attorney can negotiate a settlement, there are options available for you. While there are loan companies that provide plaintiffs with short-term loans until negotiations are complete, these companies tend to have high interest rates and fees that may significantly cut into what you receive. You may also want to look into personal loans, credit cards, or loans from friends or family members to bridge the gap instead.
Set Up a Free Consultation Now—We’re Here to Help
Our personal injury law firm in Victorville is committed to helping you get the compensation you are owed after someone else’s negligence leaves you injured. Schedule your legal consultation online or call us at 760-245-7310.
Mr. Ewaniszyk was first admitted to practice law in 1982 and he lived and raised his family in the High Desert since 1986. He has successfully represented hundreds of clients each year suffering from serious and catastrophic personal injuries, those accused of criminal offenses, people going through divorce and family law matters, and families facing bankruptcy. Mr. Ewaniszyk has tried many cases in both Federal and State Courts during his extensive career and previously served for five years as the City Attorney for the City of Adelanto. Learn more here.