Don’t Just Trust the Insurance Company’s Number

Part of the series: “What Is My Personal Injury Case Worth? A Complete Guide.” This article closes the series with a warning every injured person should hear.

Once you understand how an injury case is really valued, you’ll see why the number an insurance company offers you early on is so often far too low. Here’s what’s actually going on behind that offer.

Most insurance companies are publicly traded, which means they answer to shareholders and have an obligation to make those shareholders as much money as possible. They do that by collecting premiums and paying out as little as possible on claims. When you have a valid claim they’d rather not pay in full, that goal doesn’t disappear — it shapes everything they tell you.

It often sounds reasonable on the surface. An adjuster will tell you they’ve handled thousands of these cases and know exactly what yours is worth. Then comes an offer that may cover your medical bills, or only part of them, plus a little for lost wages — and often nothing for future losses or for non-economic damages, which are frequently the most valuable part of a case. The message is usually some version of take it or leave it: accept this, or go hire a lawyer and we’ll see you at trial in a few years.

Faced with that, a lot of people simply fold and take what’s offered.

The problem is that the picture they paint isn’t the whole truth. The large results — the cases where seriously injured people are actually paid what they’re owed — are very often kept confidential. So when an adjuster references “thousands of cases,” the big payouts aren’t in that average; only the low ones are. There’s nothing illegal about presenting it that way, which is exactly why you can’t take it at face value.

So when you’re hurt and you want to know what your case is really worth, don’t rely on the insurance company’s word. If they make an offer and you’re truly satisfied, that’s your choice. But if any part of you is wondering whether the number is fair, understand that the company has exactly one motivation — and being fair to you isn’t it. Get an independent evaluation before you sign anything.

If an insurance company has handed you a number and you’re wondering whether it’s fair, let the attorneys at High & Younes give you an honest, independent assessment first. Consultations are free, and we commonly work on a contingency fee — no upfront cost to you.

Call or text us today at 402-933-3345.