Car insurance companies exist to make a profit. As such, they’re not going to adequately compensate you for your damages without a fight.
What You Need to Know About Demand Letters
A demand letter is the first step in the negotiation process. This is a formal letter to the at-fault driver’s insurance company. It should be well-written, persuasive, and clearly outline what you expect to receive. You need to:
- Provide a description of how the accident occurred
- Explain why the driver is liable for the accident
- Outline your injuries and other losses
- State the compensation you need to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Demand letters are often accompanied by supporting documentation, such as bills or invoices, that verify your damages.
After your demand letter is received, your case is assigned to a claims adjuster. The adjuster’s job is to convince you to settle for substantially less than your original demand.
Don’t Go Through This Process Alone
There are templates for demand letters online, but you should think twice about trying to negotiate a settlement on your own. Insurance adjusters have extensive experience getting accident victims to make statements that minimize the severity of their damages or lead to denial of liability. To protect your rights, you need someone to advocate for your interests. A personal injury attorney can prepare your demand letter and negotiate on your behalf for the highest possible compensation.
In cases involving severe injuries, it’s also possible that you’re underestimating your damages. You can’t ask for more money once the settlement is final, so it’s vital that you understand what your future medical needs will be and how your injuries will affect your earning potential. An experienced personal injury attorney can find medical and vocational experts to accurately estimate your future expenses, so you’re not left with an unfair financial burden.
Have You Been Injured In A Louisiana Car Accident?
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident you need to speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Alexandria office directly at 318.541.8188 to schedule your free consultation.