Why a Quick Settlement May Be a Costly Mistake
After a car accident, it’s common to feel overwhelmed and eager to move on. The insurance company may offer a fast settlement and even suggest that hiring an attorney will complicate things. But here’s the truth: that initial offer is usually far less than what you deserve.
At Almagno Law, we’ve seen it too often—victims accepting a check only to discover weeks or months later that their medical bills, lost wages, or long-term pain and suffering were never fully covered. Once you accept a settlement, you’re barred from reopening the claim, even if complications arise.
If you’ve suffered serious injuries, missed work, or are facing long-term recovery, it’s essential to speak with a personal injury attorney before signing anything.
How Insurance Companies Protect Their Interests—Not Yours
It’s important to understand that insurance companies are profit-driven businesses. Their goal is to minimize payouts, not ensure your financial recovery. Adjusters are trained to appear sympathetic while working behind the scenes to reduce claim value.
Common Insurance Tactics
- Quick settlements: Offer money fast, hoping you’ll accept before understanding the extent of your injuries.
- Recorded statements: Use your own words against you later in the claim process.
- Delaying tactics: Create frustrating delays, hoping you’ll give up or settle out of desperation.
- Blame-shifting: Suggest you were partially or fully at fault to reduce their payout.
By working with a knowledgeable car accident attorney, you gain an advocate who knows how to push back against these tactics—and win.
Types of Compensation You May Be Missing
When you accept a quick settlement, you may be compensated for immediate medical bills or vehicle damage—but that’s often just the tip of the iceberg.
A Full Legal Claim Can Recover:
- Medical expenses (including future treatments)
- Lost income and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Long-term disability or rehabilitation
Depending on your case, there may also be overlapping claims involving workers’ compensation if you were injured while working, or even criminal implications if another driver was under the influence—handled by our DUI defense team.
When Civil or Criminal Law Intersect with Car Accidents
Car accident cases aren’t always straightforward. In some cases, civil litigation becomes necessary to secure a just settlement when the insurance company refuses to negotiate fairly.
Similarly, if the other party was driving under the influence, fleeing the scene, or committing another violation, criminal defense and traffic law elements come into play. These nuances can significantly affect both your compensation and your legal strategy.
In fatal crashes, surviving family members may need to address trust and estate planning issues and file wrongful death claims. Almagno Law can handle these interconnected legal needs from one centralized, compassionate team.
Real Results from Real Clients
Many Rhode Island residents have turned to us after feeling overwhelmed by the legal system or misled by insurers. In fact, some of our most successful case results began with a simple consultation that changed the course of someone’s recovery—financially and emotionally.
Want to hear it from them? Browse our testimonials to see how clients describe their experience with our firm.
FAQs: Still Have Questions?
We understand that legal matters can be confusing. That’s why we’ve created a Frequently Asked Questions page to help you navigate the basics. Still uncertain? We encourage you to contact us directly.
This approach means you not only get legal help—you gain peace of mind and confidence in your next steps.
Why Choose Almagno Law
Almagno Law is known for its tireless advocacy and responsive client care. When you work with us, you get:
- Decades of local Rhode Island experience
- A full team versed in business law, administrative law, and trial litigation
- Direct access to attorneys—not just case managers or paralegals
- Strategic, aggressive representation at every stage of your case
We take your situation personally—and we’ll fight to make sure you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Take the First Step Toward Financial Recovery
Don’t let insurance companies dictate your future. A rushed settlement might offer short-term relief but leave you burdened with long-term expenses. Instead, partner with a trusted law firm that puts your well-being first.
Ready to speak with a car accident lawyer? Contact us today for a free consultation and case evaluation.
And if you’re looking to educate yourself further on injury law, check out our blog, where we regularly publish insights that empower clients to make informed decisions.
Legal Disclaimer
This blog and the information contained on this website are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Reading this blog does not create an attorney-client relationship with Almagno Law or any of its attorneys. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.
