Is the first settlement offer usually low?

Often, yes. Insurers commonly open below what they expect to pay, and a counteroffer is a normal part of the process. A first offer that arrives quickly, before your treatment is finished, deserves extra caution.

Should I accept a settlement offer before I finish treatment?

Usually not. Signing a release normally ends the claim, so costs that appear later, such as more therapy or surgery, cannot be added. Most people wait until their doctor can say what future treatment they need.

How do I counter a low settlement offer?

Reply in writing with a specific amount and the reasons for it: your medical bills, lost wages, future treatment, and how the injury affects daily life. Ask the adjuster to explain how they valued the claim. Keep copies of everything.

How long does an insurance company have to respond to a counteroffer?

It depends on the state's fair claims practices rules and on the case. Many adjusters respond within a few weeks. If the deadline to file a lawsuit is getting close, talk to a lawyer, because negotiation does not pause that deadline.

Is my settlement offer fair?

Enter the offer the insurance company made, along with your bills and lost wages. The calculator compares the offer with an estimate that applies your state's fault rule, insurance limits and no-fault rules, and shows what you would actually keep.

Your accident

State where the accident happened

How serious is the injury?

Minor×1.5–2Soft tissue, sprain, bruising; heals in weeksModerate×2–3Whiplash or back pain with months of therapySerious×3–4Fracture, herniated disc, concussion, surgerySevere×4–5Brain or spinal injury, permanent disability

Your costs so far

Medical billsLost wagesOffer you received

That's all you need for a first estimate. Rough numbers are fine.

Optional: make the estimate more accurate fault, insurance, lawyer fee

Fault and future costs

Your share of fault 0%Not at faultFully at faultExpected future treatment

Insurance

Other driver's policy limitLeave empty to assume your state's legal minimum.Your UM/UIM coverage

What comes out of it

Attorney fee 33%No lawyer45%

Case costsMedical liens to repay

Choose your state to see your estimate

What your claim may be worth
What you would actually take home
Your state's deadline to file

If the offer looks low: 4 steps

Don't sign yet A signed release usually ends your claim for good, including costs you haven't had yet.
Ask how they got the number Request the adjuster's valuation in writing: which bills they counted and what they offered for pain and suffering.
Counter in writing Name a specific amount and back it up with bills, wage records and how the injury affects your daily life. The demand letter generator drafts it for you.
Watch the deadline Negotiating does not stop your state's deadline to file a lawsuit. If it's close, talk to a lawyer.

How much time do you have to file?

StateDate of the accident

General personal injury deadline only. It can be shorter for claims against a city, county or state agency (often a written notice within months), and longer for minors. Check with a lawyer before relying on it.

Frequently asked questions

Is the first settlement offer usually low?: Often, yes. Insurers commonly open below what they expect to pay, and a counteroffer is a normal part of the process. A first offer that arrives quickly, before your treatment is finished, deserves extra caution.
Should I accept a settlement offer before I finish treatment?: Usually not. Signing a release normally ends the claim, so costs that appear later, such as more therapy or surgery, cannot be added. Most people wait until their doctor can say what future treatment they need.
How do I counter a low settlement offer?: Reply in writing with a specific amount and the reasons for it: your medical bills, lost wages, future treatment, and how the injury affects daily life. Ask the adjuster to explain how they valued the claim. Keep copies of everything.
How long does an insurance company have to respond to a counteroffer?: It depends on the state's fair claims practices rules and on the case. Many adjusters respond within a few weeks. If the deadline to file a lawsuit is getting close, talk to a lawyer, because negotiation does not pause that deadline.