At some point, your case is going to settle. Well, maybe not. Most cases will settle. About 90% of cases settle before trial. About 95% of cases settle without the trial going forward. Some cases settle on the first day of trial. If you fall into that last 5%, your case will not settle and a judge or jury will tell you the value of your case. But, if you fall into that 95% of cases, then your case will settle. If it does settle, here are two things to remember:
1. DO NOT NEGOTIATE WITH THE INSURANCE COMPANY
They are trained in negotiation skills. You, most likely, are not. Do not negotiate with them until you know your rights. Even if you negotiate other things for a living, like buying a car, negotiating a settlement of a car accident or personal injury case is different. Do NOT do it.
2. DO NOT SETTLE WITHOUT TALKING TO AN ATTORNEY
The insurance company will not tell you what you are entitled to recover. While the insurance companies like to talk to you about being in good hands, or that they are on your side, or that they are like a good neighbor, they are not going to explain to you everything that you are entitled to recover. You need to talk to someone who knows what you are entitled to under the law. Most attorneys will give a free consultation. It costs you nothing but time. Do not settle with the insurance company until you have received a free consultation.
Follow these two rules when you are thinking about settling your personal injury claim.