If you’ve been hurt in a crash on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, having a car accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference. At Brown, Bass & Jeter, we fight for the rights of car accident victims in Biloxi and throughout Harrison County. From navigating insurance claims to pursuing full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, our attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way. Call us today at (601) 327-4024 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and securing the justice you deserve.
Think Twice Before Taking the First Settlement Offer After a Biloxi Car Wreck
After a car accident, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Between medical bills, missed work, and physical recovery, the pressure to move forward can be intense. That’s when insurance companies often make their move—offering a quick settlement. It might seem like a relief in the moment, but accepting that first offer can lead to big regrets down the road.
Insurance Companies Don’t Work for You
It’s important to remember that insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to pay as little as possible on every claim. When an adjuster offers a fast settlement, it’s not because they want to help you—it’s because they want to protect the company’s bottom line.
You may receive a call just days after the crash. The adjuster might sound helpful and concerned. They may say this is the “best offer” or that it’s meant to speed up your recovery. But their goal is to close the case quickly before the full extent of your injuries and damages is even known.
The Full Impact of Your Injuries May Not Be Clear
One of the biggest risks of settling too soon is underestimating your injuries. Some injuries take days or even weeks to fully appear. Whiplash, soft tissue damage, and head injuries can have delayed symptoms. If you accept a settlement right away, you lose the ability to claim additional compensation for medical care related to those injuries.
You also might not know how long your recovery will take. What if you need surgery in the future? What if physical therapy drags on for months? What if your injuries affect your ability to work? A quick settlement won’t cover those possibilities.
Settlements Are Final
Once you accept a settlement offer, it’s legally binding. That means you can’t go back and ask for more money later—even if new medical issues come up or you discover the damage was worse than you thought.
This is why it’s critical to be certain of the full scope of your losses before signing anything. A settlement should reflect not only your current costs but also future expenses and long-term impacts.
You May Be Entitled to More Than You Realize
Many people don’t realize all the types of compensation they’re entitled to after a crash. A car accident claim in Mississippi can include:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
When you take the first offer, it typically only covers a portion of these losses—often just the initial medical bills and some car repairs. Without legal guidance, it’s easy to overlook more subtle damages like future treatment, permanent limitations, or the emotional toll of the accident.
Negotiation Is Part of the Process
It’s important to understand that the first offer is just the starting point. Negotiation is expected, and the initial figure is rarely the final one. Insurance companies count on you not knowing that.
An experienced car accident lawyer can evaluate your case, calculate a fair value for your damages, and negotiate on your behalf. This often results in a significantly higher settlement than what was first offered.
At Brown, Bass & Jeter, we handle communication with the insurance companies so you don’t have to. Our team gathers evidence, works with medical experts, and builds a strong case that supports your claim for maximum compensation.
The Statute of Limitations Gives You Time
In Mississippi, you generally have three years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. That means you don’t have to rush into a settlement. You have time to understand your injuries, explore your legal options, and make informed decisions.
Don’t let an insurance company pressure you into settling just to “get it over with.” Take the time to speak with a legal professional who can help you determine what your case is truly worth.
What to Do After Receiving a Settlement Offer
If you’ve received a settlement offer, here’s what you should do before accepting:
- Get medical attention – Make sure all injuries are diagnosed and documented.
- Request a copy of the offer in writing – Don’t agree to anything over the phone.
- Avoid signing any release forms – These can waive your right to future claims.
- Contact a lawyer – Let a car accident attorney review the offer and advise you on your rights.
Get the Support You Need from a Trusted Car Accident Lawyer in Biloxi
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, you deserve legal support that puts your needs first. At Brown, Bass & Jeter, our team is committed to helping accident victims in Biloxi recover the compensation they need to move forward. Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost income, or emotional trauma, we’re here to fight for you. Don’t wait to get the help you deserve—call (601) 327-4024 today to schedule your free consultation with a knowledgeable Car Accident Lawyer who will stand by your side every step of the way.
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(601) 487-8448