Insurance companies prefer to settle out of court instead of going to trial. Trials take more time and resources and come with risks that insurance companies would prefer to avoid.
That’s why insurers prefer to settle cases without going to court. That said, insurance companies still offer lowball settlements and do everything possible to reduce the amount of damages you receive.
Fortunately, a Marietta personal injury lawyer will negotiate with insurers and get the settlement you deserve. If the insurance company refuses to pay fair damages, your attorney will take your case to court.
Let’s take a closer look at why insurance companies want to settle out of court and how a dedicated lawyer will help you get the damages you deserve.
Why Insurance Companies Want to Settle Out of Court
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, truck crash, slip and fall, or another type of incident caused by a negligent party, you are probably wondering if the insurance company will want to settle out of court. In most cases, insurance companies prefer to settle cases out of court rather than go to trial.
Trials are costly, time–consuming, and unpredictable, which makes settlement the more attractive option for insurers. In addition, when an insurance company settles, it maintains more control over the outcome rather than leaving it to a jury. However, just because insurers prefer settlements doesn’t mean they will offer a fair one right away.
Insurance companies’ goal is to protect their bottom line, which means they’ll try to minimize payouts, delay negotiations, or pressure you into accepting a lowball offer.
A lawyer will advise you if a settlement is fair and work with the insurer to ensure a fair offer is made. Reach out to a lawyer to learn more about why insurance companies want to settle out of court.
Why Insurance Companies Offer Quick, Low Settlements
If you’ve been in an accident, the at-fault party’s insurance company will likely reach out to you soon after the accident to offer a settlement. While this might seem like a sign that they want to resolve the insurance claim fairly, it’s often used as a tactic to minimize your settlement.
Insurance companies know that injury victims face medical bills, lost wages, and financial stress, which makes them more likely to accept a fast offer. However, these early settlements are often far lower than what a case is actually worth. If you accept a settlement, you waive your right to pursue additional damages, even if your injuries worsen.
That’s why it’s crucial to consult an attorney before agreeing to any settlement. A lawyer will evaluate your case, calculate your total damages, and negotiate a fair settlement. They’ll offer advice to help you understand your case and explain why insurance companies want to settle out of court.
When Insurance Companies Refuse to Settle
While most insurance companies want to settle out of court, there are times when they refuse to offer a reasonable settlement. This might happen if they believe they will win in court, if liability is unclear, or if they suspect the claimant will accept less under pressure.
In some cases, insurers use delay tactics to wear down victims, hoping they will settle for less out of frustration.
When an insurance company refuses to negotiate in good faith, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. An experienced attorney will push back against these tactics, build a strong case, and prepare your case for trial.
The good news is that even after a lawsuit is filed, most cases still settle before going to court, especially if the evidence is in your favor. Having an experienced lawyer who is ready to litigate will pressure the insurer into offering a fair settlement.
How an Attorney Will Increase Your Settlement Offer
Insurance companies are more likely to offer a fair settlement when they know you have legal representation. Without a lawyer, adjusters often try to downplay your injuries, shift blame, or claim your damages are worth less than they really are.
An attorney levels the playing field by gathering strong evidence, calculating the full extent of your losses, and handling negotiations on your behalf. They may also use expert witness testimony and accident reports to support your claim.
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney will prepare for trial, which often pressures them into settling for a higher amount because they want to avoid a courtroom battle.
Whether the insurance company wants to settle out of court or not, a lawyer will pursue the maximum damages for your injuries and losses.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Dedicated Personal Injury Lawyer
At Jones & Swanson, we are a smaller firm by choice. Our size allows us to offer better customer service and attention to our clients and cases. We will return your phone calls and respond to emails quickly. We also prioritize service, satisfaction, compassion, and commitment to excellent results.
If you’ve been injured in an accident, our team will explain why insurance companies want to settle out of court and fight for the settlement you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an attorney from our team. We are leaders in the bar association and have a highly trained staff who will give you peace of mind throughout your case.
