Adjuster Offered Me Money, Should I Take It?

I often hear the following story (or a variation thereof): “two days after my accident, the adjuster offered me $750 to settle.” Some even say: “the adjuster offered to keep my medicals open for up to $1,500.” What does this mean? Should you take it?
Whenever you settle an injury claim (whether from an accident, slip or fall, or any other injury claim), the insurance company will have you sign a Release. The purpose of the Release is to “forever” dismiss the responsible party and his or her insurance company from all claims. In exchange, the insurance company will pay you $750 for “all medical bills”, lost income, out-of-pocket expenses, and pain and suffering.
The adjuster makes this offer before you get a chance to see a health care provider or an attorney because the adjuster is trying to get you to dismiss your case before you know about your injuries, the cost of treatment, and your rights. Remember that the $750 being offered is to pay for everything including “your medical bills.” Often times, injuries take some time to show up after an accident. So, how are you to know if you are injured, the extent of your injuries, and the amount of your medical bills two days after an accident?
What about the offer to keep your medicals open for up to $1,500? Here is the reality: an adjuster with no medical background, sitting at a cubicle with over 200 files, whom you have never met gives you a diagnosis for your injuries and tells you how much your treatment will cost in the future. How confident do you feel about such a diagnosis? Please do not take the bait and speak with a professional before making any decisions.
For more information about The Mason Law Firm go to www.mrscvlaw.com or call 661-476-5678.