Why Early Offers Run Low
Initial offers often assume best-case recovery and minimal future treatment costs.
Once releases are signed, additional compensation is usually unavailable, even if symptoms worsen.
Insurance Tactical Guide
How to Respond to a Lowball Insurance Offer After a Crash
Early settlement offers are often made before full treatment and damages are known. Counter with documentation, not emotion.
Key Steps
- Request a written valuation breakdown.
- Compare the offer against medical, wage, and out-of-pocket records.
- Submit a documented counter package with timeline support.
Counteroffer Documentation Checklist
Include treatment chronology, provider recommendations, work impact, and ongoing symptom logs.
Tie every number in your counter to evidence that the adjuster can verify.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I reject every first offer?
Not always, but first offers are frequently incomplete. Evaluate against full damages before deciding.
Can a counteroffer hurt my claim?
A documented, evidence-based counteroffer generally strengthens negotiation clarity.
When should I bring in a lawyer on low offers?
If injuries are significant, fault is disputed, or offers stay far below documented losses, legal review is often worthwhile.