Should I accept the settlement check sent by the insurance company?

One of my clients got involved in a minor car accident. He called me and asked me if it was okay for him to accept the $750 check sent to him by the responsible party's insurance company. 

I asked when the accident occurred, and he told me that it has occurred about three months ago. I asked him what kind of injuries he had. He told me that he had some minor back pain on the date of the accident but otherwise didn't have pain since the date of the act. He also told me his vehicle only had about $600 worth of property damage. He also told me that he only had about two days rental.  He had already been paid for his vehicle and the rental. 

I asked how much his medical bills were, and he told me they were relatively small - only about $150.  He said he was feeling much better and hadn't had any pain that he related to the accident recently. I told him that in that case, he could go ahead and accept the $750 settlement from the other insurance company. Basically, their offer certainly seemed reasonable in light of the minor nature of the accident and injuries. 

Even if he were to get a bit more with an attorney's assistance, he might get less in the long run since the attorney usually takes 33.3% of the settlement as a fee. In many cases, an attorney can bring value to a case. However, when it comes to very minor accidents, it makes sense to try to settle the case on your own.  If it makes sense, go ahead an accept the offer made by the insurance company.  However, it doesn't hurt to run things by an experienced personal injury lawyer.

If you are involved in a serious car accident and want guidance, call attorney Robert Mansour to discuss your matter.  Robert serves all of Los Angeles County with special emphasis on the Santa Clarita Valley (Valencia, Castaic, Saugus, Newhall, Stevenson Ranch, and Canyon Country).  Call (661) 414-7100 for more information.