Is Your Injury Settlement Fair? Signs of a Lowball Offer (And What to Do About It)

Have you recently been injured and are dealing with an insurance company regarding a settlement? You might be wondering, "Is this offer fair?" At Iacobelli Law Firm, we frequently hear this question. It's crucial to understand how to recognize a lowball offer and what steps you can take to protect your rights. That's why we've created a new YouTube video diving deep into this topic. Watch it now, and then read on for a summary of key points.

Watch our YouTube video here.


Recognizing a Lowball Offer:
Insurance companies sometimes aim to settle claims quickly and for less than they're worth. Here are several signs that the offer you've received might be a lowball:

• The First Offer: Often, the initial offer from an insurance company is significantly lower than what you're entitled to. They may lack complete information, such as your medical records, and are trying to close the claim rapidly.
• Vague Offers Without Justification: A lowball offer is often vague and doesn't fully cover your expenses, including pain and suffering, income loss (past and future), and other damages. There's little to no explanation of how the offer amount was calculated.
• Failure to Account for Future Losses: If the offer only covers immediate losses but ignores potential future medical expenses or lost income, it's likely a lowball.
• "Generous" Offer Disguised: Be wary if the insurance company claims their offer is generous or fair due to partial blame on your part or other circumstances that supposedly weaken your case. This might be an attempt to justify a discounted offer.
• Downplaying Your Injuries: If the insurance adjuster minimizes the severity of your injuries, they are likely trying to justify a lower payout.
• Tactics and Delays: Insurance companies may delay the process, constantly asking for "one more thing" to run the clock on the statute of limitations (the deadline to file a lawsuit). This tactic can weaken your case if you eventually need to seek legal action.
• Pressure to Accept Immediately: If the insurance company pressures you to accept the offer right away, it's a major red flag. They don't want you to seek advice or consider the offer carefully.

What Should You Do If You Suspect a Lowball Offer?
If you're unsure about the fairness of an insurance settlement offer, take these steps:

1. Get Advice: Consult with a personal injury lawyer. At Iacobelli Law Firm, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and provide a fair assessment of its value.
2. Don't Sign Anything Prematurely: Do not sign any releases or settlement agreements without first having a lawyer review them. Signing a release likely means giving up your rights to pursue further legal action.
3. Ask for a Breakdown: Request a detailed explanation of how the insurance company calculated their offer. This will help you and your lawyer evaluate its fairness.
4. Communicate Through Your Lawyer: If you have retained a lawyer, inform the insurance company and direct all communication through your legal counsel.
5. Understand Your Rights: Know that insurance companies often increase their offers when a lawyer gets involved and the threat of a lawsuit becomes real.

Why Iacobelli Law Firm Can Help:
At Iacobelli Law Firm, we have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies and negotiating fair settlements for our clients. We understand the tactics insurers use and know how to protect your rights. We can help you:

• Determine the true value of your claim.
• Gather the necessary evidence to support your case.
• Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
• File a lawsuit if necessary to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you've received an injury settlement offer and are unsure if it's fair, don't hesitate to seek legal advice. Contact Iacobelli Law Firm today for a free consultation. We're here to help you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to.


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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney for advice regarding your specific situation.

Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices in Palm Beach County Florida. Andrew restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries, Catastrophic Injuries, and wrongful death.  Andrew is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. ​​