A “Sample Letter To Reject a Low Ball Personal Injury Offer” is a letter. It is used to formally decline an inadequate settlement offer. This usually happens after a personal injury incident. You might need this letter if you feel the insurance company’s offer doesn’t cover your damages.
We know writing this letter can feel daunting. That’s why we’re here to help. We will share templates and examples.
Consider this your toolkit. These samples will guide you in crafting a strong, effective response. Let’s get started and ensure your voice is heard.
Sample Letter To Reject A Low Ball Personal Injury Offer
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Insurance Adjuster’s Name]
[Insurance Company Name]
[Insurance Company Address]
Subject: Rejection of Settlement Offer – Claim Number [Claim Number]
Dear Mr./Ms. [Insurance Adjuster’s Last Name],
This letter refers to your settlement offer of [Amount of Offer] regarding my personal injury claim, claim number [Claim Number], resulting from the incident on [Date of Incident] at [Location of Incident].
After careful consideration, I must reject your offer as it does not adequately compensate me for the damages I have incurred. These damages include, but are not limited to, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
My medical bills to date total [Total Medical Bills]. Furthermore, I have lost [Number] days of work, resulting in lost wages of [Total Lost Wages]. The offer does not account for ongoing medical treatment or the long-term impact of my injuries on my ability to work and enjoy life.
I am confident that a fair settlement can be reached. I am open to further negotiation and look forward to your revised offer that accurately reflects the full extent of my damages.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Letter To Reject A Low Ball Personal Injury Offer
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
The subject line of your rebuttal letter should be perspicacious and direct. Avoid ambiguity. State the claim number and a clear indication of your dissent.
- Example: “Rejection of Settlement Offer – Claim #12345 – John Doe”
- Be concise; insurers handle voluminous correspondence daily.
Salutation: Professional Courtesies
Begin with a formal salutation. Even in disagreement, maintaining decorum is paramount. Address the adjuster by name if known; otherwise, use a generic, professional greeting.
- “Dear Mr./Ms. [Adjuster’s Last Name],” or “Dear Claims Adjuster,”
- Avoid overly familiar greetings like “Hello” or “Hi.”
Introduction: State Your Intent
The introductory paragraph should unequivocally state your rejection of the settlement offer. Be upfront and avoid mincing words. Provide a brief reference to the date of the offer you’re refuting.
- “This letter serves as formal notification that I reject your settlement offer of [Amount] dated [Date].”
- Subtly reiterate the incident date; it refreshes their recollection.
Body Paragraphs: Substantiating Your Claim
Here’s where you articulate the reasons for rejecting the offer. Methodically outline the inadequacies, emphasizing the tangible and intangible damages incurred. Quantify everything.
- Detail medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing treatment costs.
- Describe pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any permanent impairments.
- Cite specific documentation, such as medical reports and pay stubs, to buttress your assertions.
- If applicable, mention the at-fault party’s negligence and its direct correlation to your injuries.
Counter Offer: Naming Your Price
Present a counteroffer that reflects a more equitable compensation for your injuries and losses. Justify this amount with specifics from the prior paragraphs. This is not an arbitrary number.
- “Based on the aforementioned damages, I propose a settlement of [Desired Amount].”
- Be prepared to negotiate; this is merely an initial counter.
Setting a Deadline: Urgency Matters
Impose a reasonable deadline for the adjuster to respond. This creates a sense of urgency and prevents undue delays in the negotiation process. This shows you’re ready to litigate if necessary.
- “I expect a response to this counteroffer within [Number] days, no later than [Date].”
- A typical timeframe is 14-30 days.
Closing: Professional and Forward-Looking
Conclude the letter with a professional closing. Express willingness to engage in further discussions, but remain firm in your resolve to seek fair compensation. Set the stage for continued negotiation or potential litigation.
- “I remain open to discussing this matter further and reaching an amicable resolution. However, please be advised that I am prepared to explore all available legal avenues if a fair settlement cannot be achieved.”
- Use a formal closing, such as “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” followed by your typed name and signature.
Frequently Asked Questions: Rejecting a Low-Ball Personal Injury Offer
Navigating the complexities of personal injury settlements can be challenging. This FAQ section addresses common questions regarding rejecting an initial, unsatisfactory offer from an insurance company.
What is considered a “low-ball” offer in a personal injury case?
A “low-ball” offer is a settlement offer that is significantly lower than the actual value of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Why should I reject a low-ball offer?
Rejecting a low-ball offer is essential to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Accepting too quickly may leave you with insufficient funds to cover your needs.
What should I include in my letter rejecting the offer?
Your letter should politely but firmly reject the offer, clearly state your reasons for doing so, reiterate the details of the accident and your injuries, and provide a counteroffer supported by documentation.
Is it advisable to hire an attorney when rejecting a low-ball offer?
Engaging an attorney is highly recommended. A legal professional can assess the true value of your claim, negotiate effectively with the insurance company, and represent your interests in court if necessary.
What happens after I reject the initial offer?
After you reject the offer, the insurance company may respond with a higher offer, deny the claim, or remain unresponsive. This is often the beginning of a negotiation process, which may eventually lead to a settlement agreement or a lawsuit.
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