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Home > Accident Attorney > IS THE SETTLEMENT AMOUNT OFFERED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY FAIR FOR YOUR CLAIM?

Written by Jelena Tiemann and Peter B. Tiemann

Last Updated : January 13, 2022
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Posted on Thursday, October 4th, 2018 at 1:53 am    

When a person causes an injury through negligence or wrongdoing, California’s personal injury laws allow for compensation of damages. In many cases, the person who caused the injury has a liability insurance policy that covers the claim. For example, motorists are required to have minimum car insurance in case they cause a car accident. Businesses and homeowners have property insurance to cover claims for a fall or other injury on their property.

Therefore, most accident claims are handled by the insurance provider for the at-fault party. Even though the purpose of liability insurance is to cover valid claims against the insured, insurance providers do not want to pay large claims. Insurance companies are in business to make money and paying large injury claims cuts into their profit margin.

Three Warning Signs a Settlement Offer May Not Be Fair

In some cases, the insurance company may attempt to settle the claim very quickly. While a quick settlement is not always an indication of an unfair settlement amount, it is a reason to be cautious and to contact a Sacramento personal injury attorney before accepting the settlement offer.

  • The Settlement is Less Than You Expected

If a settlement offer is lower than you expected, the insurance company may be attempting to close the claim quickly to avoid paying a higher amount. You are not required to accept the settlement offer. Accepting the first settlement offer usually means you are losing money. You have the right to negotiate a settlement that is fair and just. Our Sacramento personal injury attorneys have extensive experiencing valuing claims. Call to discuss your claim with an attorney during a free case review.

  • The Insurance Adjuster Tells You That The Policy Does Not Fully Cover Your Injuries Or Accident

An insurance policy usually contains specific exclusions that are not covered by the insurance policy. If the adjuster tells you that your accident or your injury is not fully covered, do not accept the offer. You need to ask for a written explanation of the determination with copies of the appropriate portion of the policy excluding the injury or accident.

In addition, the insurance company may allege that you are partially at fault for the accident or your injuries. Claiming you are partially at-fault is a means of lowering the amount of compensation you are entitled to receive under California’s comparative fault laws.

If the insurance company tries either of these tactics, contact our Sacramento personal injury attorneys immediately.

  • The Company Requests a Signed Release

Before you sign a release, you need to consult with an attorney. Once you sign a release, you cannot file a lawsuit or claim additional compensation. The release relieves the insurance company and other parties from any further liability for your injuries and damages. Even if you discover an additional injury or require additional medical treatment, you cannot recover any additional compensation if you have signed a release.

Contact a Sacramento Personal Injury Attorney

Call The Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 or visit our website to request a free consultation with one of our Sacramento personal injury lawyers.

Categories: Accident Attorney, Accident Injury, Attorney At Law, Personal Injury, Personal Injury Lawyer

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Client Testimonials

Jennifer T. Testimonial
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I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

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Here's the thing... Nobody really thinks much about lawyers until they need one.  Well, we needed one!  The Tieman Law Firm came through for us in a big way. They were professional, courteous, thorough, and had excellent staff as well.  Highly recommended...

Jereme S. Testimonial
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No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
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From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

Matt H. Testimonial
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I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.