Is It Possible to Negotiate a Higher Settlement in a Car Accident Case?

If another party caused a car crash and you suffered injuries, they should be responsible for covering all of your losses. However, if their insurance company offers a lowball settlement, you likely wonder whether you can negotiate a higher settlement.

The good news is that it is possible to negotiate a higher settlement in a car accident case to ensure your damages are adequately compensated. However, this depends on your ability to present a compelling case, knowledge of Florida law, and negotiating skills. 

With legal representation from the right Florida car accident attorney, you increase your chances of securing a settlement that best reflects your losses. Consulting The Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro, P.A. is a proactive step you can take toward maximum compensation. 

How an Experienced Attorney Negotiates a Higher Settlement in a Car Accident Case

The following are three examples of how a skilled lawyer works to go from an initial lowball offer to a fair settlement that covers your losses and allows you to move forward from your injuries with proper financial support. 

Present Strong Evidence of Future Losses

Initial settlements usually only address your current losses, though many serious injuries will require ongoing medical treatment beyond the resolution of your claim. When negotiating a settlement, attorneys understand the importance of presenting strong evidence of future losses to ensure you do not have to cover them. 

Evidence of future losses can often include: 

• Medical reports
• Expert opinions
• Medical provider testimony
• Anything else demonstrating the long-term impact of your injuries

By focusing on future losses, your car accident attorney can effectively argue for a higher settlement amount that accounts for ongoing medical treatments, rehabilitation, and potential loss of future income. 

It is crucial for attorneys to thoroughly investigate their client’s case and gather all relevant evidence to build a strong argument that supports their client’s claim for future as well as past compensation.

Prove Your Non-Economic Losses

In addition to presenting evidence of future losses, your car accident attorney will also aim to prove your non-economic losses. Generally, insurers will first focus on economic losses and ignore intangible losses that cannot be as easily calculated. 

Non-economic losses include: 

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability and disfigurement

Attorneys use various approaches, such as assessing the impact of the injury on your daily life and mental well-being, to establish the extent and value of these non-economic losses. 

By effectively presenting and proving these damages, attorneys can demand a higher settlement amount that adequately compensates you for the intangible impact of your injuries.

Challenge Any Claims You Were Partially to Blame

In some cases, the opposing party or insurance company may try to argue that you were partially to blame for the incident that caused your injuries. However, skilled Florida car accident attorneys know how to challenge such claims and protect your rights, as unfair assertions of blame can reduce your compensation. 

Attorneys thoroughly review the evidence and investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine the extent of liability on both parties. By challenging any claims of shared fault or contributory negligence, your attorney can build a strong case that supports your right to a higher settlement. 

It is critical to seek proper legal representation to ensure any attempts to shift blame are effectively addressed and countered.

Contact a Florida Car Accident Lawyer Today

Negotiating a higher car accident settlement is not only possible but often achievable with the right approach by the right lawyer. Your attorney from the Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro, P.A. will negotiate for the maximum possible settlement and protect your right to adequate recovery. Call 239-500-5000 or contact us online now to schedule a free initial case evaluation.