However, declining the offer isn't as simple as requiring your insurance company to present you with more money. Instead, you have to write a formal letter rejecting the agreement. This letter should include why you need more money and a counteroffer based on your injuries and damages. An initially offered deal likely won't fully compensate you.
It's not wise to accept without legal representation, as doing so could eliminate your ability to get additional deserved compensation. If, after thinking about the reasonableness and limit of the policy, you still think that the offer you have is too low, you can decline it. Always decline an offer of agreement in writing. Write a letter to your contact at the insurance company stating the reasons why you think your offer is too low.
Support these reasons with concrete evidence attached to the letter. Finally, make a counteroffer of a sum that you deem most reasonable. The second thing you should know is that you are absolutely free to decline the offer and, in most cases, you should probably decline it, but your lawyer will have advice tailored to your situation. Think of the insurance company's first offer as the start of negotiations to reach an agreement.
The complexity and duration of car accident resolution negotiations will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries and whether fault for the accident is clearly established or not. The first settlement offer is just an offer. If you've decided to decline the insurance company's first offer, it doesn't mean you're no longer eligible to claim compensation. Telling the insurance company “no” is simply part of the negotiation process.
If you want to decline a settlement offer, you must send a letter describing your refusal; it is best for you to draft it with the help of an experienced lawyer.
