itial responses often request additional documentation or clarification about damages, treatment, or accident circumstances. Common response types include full settlement offers accepting liability and offering compensation, though usually less than demanded; partial offers acknowledging some liability but disputing damage amounts or causation; denials rejecting liability entirely and refusing compensation; and reservation of rights letters neither accepting nor denying claims while continuing investigation.
When evaluating responses, compare offers against your documented damages, considering whether amounts adequately compensate medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future needs. Lowball initial offers are common negotiation tactics; don’t accept first offers without thorough evaluation. Insufficient offers require counter-demands supported by additional evidence, medical opinions, or legal arguments.
If insurers deny claims or make unreasonable offers, consider formal complaints to state insurance departments or litigation. Response timing affects negotiations; quick responses may indicate clear liability and settlement willingness, while delayed responses might signal disputed liability or investigation complexity.
Throughout negotiations, maintain documentation of all communications, continue medical treatment as prescribed, and avoid recorded statements or signed releases without attorney consultation. Most cases require multiple negotiation rounds before reaching fair settlements.
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