Over the last week or so, we’ve been discussing settlement of one of our car accident files with an ICBC adjustor. His tone is very friendly, and it seems like he really wants the best for our client. In numerous emails, he’s mentioned that he wants everyone to be happy, that he wants things done efficiently and for our client’s overall benefit. In fact, one of our paralegals mentioned her pleasant surprise at how cooperative and friendly he is. The reality is that he’s offered mere pennies of what the client actually needs, and is trying his hardest to make it seem fair.
A real life, tragic example of what happens at the advice of an ICBC adjustor came walking into our office last week (on an unrelated matter). She was hurt in a car accident a while ago, and rushed into a quick settlement for a few thousand dollars. She said she was young, and just wanted to get it behind her; “be done with it.”
What she didn’t realize was that she’d suffered a concussion in the car crash, in addition to her whiplash and other injuries. A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that has permanent effects, likely lasting her whole life. She suffers as a result of the crash every single day. Her mood has changed, she can’t think as clearly, and has anxiety (in addition to the permanent physical effects of the vehicle accident). I can’t express how regretful she was that she settled so soon, and for so little. She vowed never to allow anyone she knows make that same mistake.
Once you settle, that’s it. If you later realize that you have a more serious injury than originally manifested, it will be too late. ICBC may act like they’re there for you, but they’re not. Take this girl’s advice and don’t make the same mistake she did. Talk to an injury lawyer.
Contributed by Casey Trivett
Lawyer
Einfeld Law is a civil litigation law firm with a primary focus on personal injury and motor vehicle accidents.
We do not represent ICBC or any insurance companies. Your adjuster works for ICBC. We work for you.
Don’t settle for less. Contact Einfeld Law for a free, initial consultation at (250) 712-0001, visit our website at www.kelownalaw.com, or find us on facebook.
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