Whether a small business filing a claim for water damage, an individual dealing with insurance after a car accident, or a patient who is waiting for health insurance to cover medical bills, we expect our coverage to provide a reasonable payout. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Insurance companies are notorious for making low offers in an attempt to protect their bottom line. The first step for those who find themselves in this situation is to understand common indicators of a low offer. The next, to know how to fight back.
How do I know if an offer is too low?
Key indicators that the insurance representative provided an inadequate offer include a failure to cover the cost of:
- Medical expenses: Check to see if the offer covers all current and future medical costs related to the accident, including hospital bills, rehabilitation, and any necessary ongoing treatment.
- Property damage: The settlement should account for the full repair or replacement value of your vehicle and any other damaged property.
- Lost wages: If the accident has impacted your ability to work, the offer should compensate for lost income and potential future earnings.
- Pain and suffering: In some cases the offer may address non-economic damages such as emotional distress and physical pain.
In addition to a failure to cover these expenses, another red flag is pressure to accept the proposal. If you feel overly pressured to accept the proposal, the representative may know it is too low and could be hoping you do not dig deeper and push for a better offer. The representative should also explain a detailed explanation for the proposal. A failure to have this transparency is also an indicator of a low ball offer.
How do I fight back?
Whether a claim for storm damage, personal injury, or health care coverage, there are steps consumers can take to better ensure a fair settlement. One of the first is to review the language of the policy. These policies are often complex and full of legalese. As such, legal counsel with experience in this area of law can help better ensure you receive coverage as outlined in the policy. This requires taking the time to understand the coverage limits and terms of your insurance policy. Next, it is important to gather and present evidence to support the claim. This can include all relevant documentation, such as language from the policy itself, medical records, repair estimates, and proof of lost wages. Taking these steps can significantly improve your chances of receiving a fair offer.
Navigating an insurance dispute is challenging, especially when dealing with large, established insurance companies. It is important to keep in mind that although insurance is supposed to help make things right they are a business focused on their bottom line. By understanding how to identify a low offer and taking proactive steps, you can better protect your rights and increase the likelihood that you receive the compensation you deserve.