Publishers
Science & Tech • Business • Investing & Finance
Why a Lawsuit is Often Better than Taking an Insurance Settlement
June 06, 2024
post photo preview

After you’ve been injured by someone else’s negligence, you’re going to face a tough decision. Do you work with the person at fault and accept a settlement offer from their insurance company? Or do you contact a personal injury lawyer and file a lawsuit?

This decision is actually easy to make when you have all the right information. The only reason it seems difficult is when you don’t know the possible outcomes for each option. This article will help you understand why filing a lawsuit is ideal.

1. A lawsuit can generate higher compensation

If you choose to work with an insurance company, you’re guaranteed to only get a fraction of the compensation you deserve. Insurance adjusters are given a maximum payout for each case and you can’t negotiate any higher. They always cap each case much lower than what it’s actually worth because their first priority is to protect their profits. They won't pay out unless they have to, and when they do, they’ll pay as little as possible.

On the other hand, suing the responsible party creates a much higher probability of getting a generous amount of compensation, provided you hire legal representation. Without an attorney, you don’t stand a chance against an insurance company in court because they’re far more experienced in legal matters.

The major difference is that a lawsuit allows you to sue for additional forms of compensation beyond just what will cover your medical bills. You can sue for lost wages, future lost wages, loss of enjoyment of life, and more. The more serious your injury, the more likely you are to get a bigger award. 

In any case, it will almost always be higher than any offer provided by the insurance company.

2. Negotiating with adjusters is tiresome

When you take on negotiating with an insurance adjuster for a settlement, you’re going to have to fight extremely hard for every dollar. The amount of time and energy you’ll expend just to get an extra thousand dollars will feel like you’ve just engaged in a massive battle.

An insurance adjuster’s job is to talk you down and try to get you to take the lowest possible dollar amount. If you want to negotiate all the way up to the maximum allowed for your claim, you’ll need to be an amazing negotiator with tireless energy.

It will still take time and energy for your lawyer to negotiate a settlement after you file a lawsuit, but it won’t take nearly as much effort, and the reward will be much higher. They’ll know exactly how much your case is worth and how to talk the other party into settling to avoid an expensive trial. Juries are known to be extremely sympathetic toward injured victims and tend to award large settlements. Most insurance companies will settle out of court to avoid going to trial.

3. A lawsuit can force a company to change their policies

If you were hurt because of a bad company policy or a policy that wasn’t being enforced properly, then a lawsuit can force that company to pay more attention to its own rules. Often, safety policies are in written form but aren’t understood, followed, or even enforced. Sometimes businesses cut corners to save time, money, and labor, and they only get away with it until someone gets hurt.

By suing the negligent party responsible for your injury, you are potentially helping to save other people from being injured in the future. Many companies won’t make any changes unless they’re forced to by a court order and the imposition of hefty fines. If, during your case, the court orders the company to make changes and/or follow specific laws, they’re likely to follow through to avoid serious legal and financial consequences.

Insurance companies are not on your side

The bottom line is that insurance companies do not exist to help people who file claims. Their main purpose is to generate a profit by collecting premiums and paying the bare minimum.

Before you sign a contract and accept an offer, talk to an attorney to get their opinion. If you have a good case, it could be in your best interest to sue rather than accept a settlement amount. If your case isn’t that strong, you can hire a lawyer to negotiate with the insurance company to get the maximum payout possible. Otherwise, consider filing a lawsuit to get the full financial compensation your case is worth.

community logo
Join the Publishers Community
To read more articles like this, sign up and join my community today
0
What else you may like…
Posts
Articles
How AI Is Transforming the Waste Management Business for Smarter Routing

The waste management industry is undergoing a dramatic shift thanks to artificial intelligence (AI). From optimizing trash collection routes to predicting maintenance needs for garbage trucks, AI is helping companies reduce operational costs, improve sustainability, and better serve customers. With the rapid advancement of machine learning, computer vision, and IoT (Internet of Things) technologies, AI-driven systems are no longer futuristic—they're being implemented right now in waste operations around the world.

Waste management business leaders are especially benefiting from smarter routing systems made possible by AI. Traditionally, garbage and recycling trucks followed static schedules and routes, often resulting in underfilled bins being collected or full bins being missed. Now, AI-powered systems use real-time data from sensors installed in containers, along with GPS and traffic data, to create the most efficient collection routes possible. These smart-routing algorithms not only reduce ...

post photo preview
Therapist Abuse: Know Your Rights and Why You Need a Lawyer on Your Side

Therapists play a crucial role in supporting mental health and emotional well-being. When working with a therapist, patients entrust them with their most personal experiences and vulnerabilities. Unfortunately, not all therapeutic relationships are safe or ethical. Therapist abuse can cause serious harm, and victims need to understand their rights and legal options. This article will explore what therapist abuse entails, the signs to watch for, and why having a lawyer can make all the difference in seeking justice and protection.
What Is Therapist Abuse?
Therapist abuse refers to any unethical or harmful behavior by a mental health professional toward a patient. Abuse can take many forms, including emotional, physical, sexual, or financial exploitation. Because of the inherent power imbalance in a therapist-patient relationship, abuse can be particularly damaging and complex.
Common Types of Therapist Abuse
Sexual misconduct: This includes any unwanted sexual advances, touching, or inappropriate comments made by a therapist.

Emotional manipulation: Therapists may ...

post photo preview

Video has quickly become one of the most powerful content medium in a business’s marketing toolkit. Whether you’re launching a new product, hosting a live event, or creating brand content, video helps you connect with your audience in ways no other medium can. But there’s a catch: to make great video, you need a great videographer.

And here’s where many new clients go wrong.

Hiring a videographer sounds simple—ask around, check a portfolio, sign a contract, right? Not quite. There are several critical decisions and assumptions that can turn what should be an amazing project into a frustrating (and expensive) disappointment.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top 5 mistakes clients make when hiring a videographer—and how you can avoid them to ensure a smooth, successful, and impactful production.

Mistake #1: Not Defining the Project Goals Clearly

The Problem:
A surprising number of clients approach videographers with vague objectives like “We need a cool video” or “Just make something that looks good.” While the creative freedom might sound appealing, it often leads to misaligned expectations and ...

post photo preview
How Education Tech Is Fueling the Next Generation of Healthcare Workers

Our healthcare system is struggling under the weight of a growing, aging population. There simply aren’t enough workers to meet the demand. Nurses and assistants are in short supply, and many hospitals and clinics around the country are struggling to fill roles, especially in rural areas. Thankfully, advancements in education technology mean it’s getting easier to train for a career in healthcare. In this article, we’ll explore how schools and health organizations are using online learning tools to train new staff.

Speeding Up the Process

Historically, training to become a medical professional involved lengthy, in-person courses. Today, the landscape has totally changed. While some parts of education can only be handled on-site, plenty can be done online. If you’re unable to attend frequent physical classes, you don’t necessarily need to give up on the idea of a healthcare career. For example, online ABSN programs let you learn theory online before completing hands-on training in a local clinic or hospital. That way, it’s quicker and easier to join the industry. 

Training That Fits Around Life 

Even if you’re super motivated, sometimes it’s just not possible to move cities to go back to school. If you have a full-time job, it’s often even more difficult. Online learning offers the opportunity for remote education, so your physical location doesn’t matter as much; at least until it’s time for placements. 

Along with being able to study anywhere, many programs are self-paced. This means you can learn around your schedule: in the evenings, weekends, or whenever suits you best. If you’ve got family or work responsibilities, it changes everything. It also opens the door to people in remote communities. Rural areas are vastly underserved, even with the development of telehealth, so training staff in these places could prove even more vital. 

Learning By Doing, Without the Risk

Educational tools and systems are developing fast. Many programs are embracing technology like video tutorials, digital models, and even virtual reality (VR). As a student, this means you can simulate real-life scenarios safely, with no risk to real patients. While simulated and virtual reality are no substitute for hands-on experience, they’re incredibly useful for helping build confidence and skill. 

Challenges

Education tech in healthcare is coming on in leaps and bounds, but that doesn’t mean it’s without drawbacks. A lack of regular in-person support means some students find it hard to stay on track. It’s also limited in terms of what can be learned, as a career in healthcare typically involves a high level of practical skills. 

Online learning is making a real difference in the number of students able to pursue further education in the healthcare space. With the US aging faster than ever and a shortage of workers, this boost to student numbers is welcome progress. 

Endnote

Online education, digitized learning, and other modern tools and technologies are helping address the staffing shortage in our healthcare system. They’re bringing more people into the field, making the learning process faster, more convenient, and more affordable. These kinds of future-focused training and educational methods can help prepare the next generation of healthcare workers; everyday heroes who are waiting to improve patient lives through diligent care. 

Read full Article
post photo preview
Why Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Make or Break Your Case

Motorcycle accidents are some of the most devastating types of crashes on the road. Riders face higher risks of serious injury or death compared to occupants of enclosed vehicles. But beyond the physical trauma, the legal and financial aftermath of a motorcycle crash can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often stereotype motorcyclists as reckless, which can unfairly affect your claim. That’s why hiring an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can truly make or break your case.

In this article, we’ll explore why legal representation is essential, how lawyers handle complex motorcycle accident claims, and what difference it can make in securing the compensation you deserve.

Understanding the High Stakes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle riders have little protection against impact. When accidents occur, they are often catastrophic, resulting in broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or even fatalities. The aftermath extends beyond medical bills; it affects your livelihood, relationships, and mental health.

The Reality of Motorcycle Accident Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are about 28 times more likely to die in a crash than car occupants. Even when riders survive, they often face long-term disabilities that require costly treatment and rehabilitation.

Why Legal Representation Matters

A motorcycle accident case is not as straightforward as it may seem. There are multiple factors involved in fault determination, medical documentation, lost wages, and dealing with biased insurance adjusters. An experienced lawyer ensures your rights are protected and that your claim reflects the true extent of your losses.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

To understand how a lawyer helps, it’s essential to know what typically causes these crashes.

Driver Negligence

Most motorcycle accidents occur because other drivers fail to notice motorcycles. Common examples include:

  • Distracted driving

  • Failure to yield

  • Unsafe lane changes

  • Speeding

  • Following too closely

Hazardous Road Conditions

Uneven pavement, potholes, debris, or poorly marked lanes can cause serious motorcycle crashes. Local or state agencies responsible for road maintenance may be liable in such cases.

Defective Motorcycle Parts

Sometimes, the cause lies in the motorcycle itself; faulty brakes, tires, or steering mechanisms can lead to loss of control. In these cases, product liability laws may apply, holding the manufacturer accountable.

Drunk or Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence is one of the deadliest causes of motorcycle crashes. Proving impairment requires collecting solid evidence like police reports, witness statements, and toxicology results, all of which a lawyer helps gather.

Why Motorcycle Accident Cases Are More Complicated Than They Seem

Motorcycle accident claims involve a web of legal and practical challenges that make them far more complicated than regular car accident cases.

Bias Against Motorcyclists

Many insurance adjusters and jurors harbor unconscious bias against riders, assuming they’re reckless thrill-seekers. This bias can lead to reduced settlement offers or unfair rulings. A skilled lawyer knows how to overcome these misconceptions through factual evidence and persuasive argumentation.

Multiple Liable Parties

Depending on the circumstances, responsibility may fall on more than one party such as another driver, a commercial vehicle operator, or a local government agency. Identifying all liable entities is crucial for maximizing compensation.

Severe and Long-Term Injuries

Motorcycle crashes often result in life-changing injuries like spinal cord damage, amputations, or brain trauma. Estimating the true value of such losses requires medical experts and long-term financial planning, something an experienced attorney coordinates.

How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Builds a Strong Case

Hiring a lawyer is not just about having someone file paperwork. It’s about having a professional who can investigate, strategize, and fight for your rights effectively.

1. Conducting a Thorough Investigation

Your lawyer gathers essential evidence such as:

  • Police reports

  • Medical records

  • Helmet and gear damage analysis

  • Eyewitness statements

  • Surveillance or dashcam footage

  • Expert accident reconstruction

This investigation forms the backbone of your claim, proving how the crash happened and who was at fault.

2. Calculating Full and Fair Compensation

A lawyer ensures you’re not settling for less than you deserve. Compensation may cover:

  • Current and future medical bills

  • Lost income and reduced earning capacity

  • Property damage

  • Pain and emotional suffering

  • Rehabilitation and assistive devices

  • Loss of enjoyment of life

3. Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. They may use tactics like:

  • Offering quick but low settlements

  • Shifting blame to you

  • Requesting unnecessary documentation to delay claims

An attorney knows these strategies and counters them effectively. For a better understanding of the insurance landscape, you can refer to the List of United States insurance companies.

4. Representing You in Court

If negotiations fail, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent you before a judge and jury. Having an attorney with trial experience significantly increases your chances of receiving a favorable verdict.

The Legal Elements You Must Prove

To win a motorcycle accident case, you must establish the following legal elements:

Duty of Care

All motorists have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly.

Breach of Duty

You must show that the defendant violated that duty, for example, by speeding or failing to yield.

Causation

It must be proven that the breach directly caused the accident and your injuries.

Damages

Finally, you must demonstrate that you suffered actual losses, such as medical expenses, lost income, or emotional distress.

Your lawyer will gather evidence and expert testimony to meet each of these legal requirements.

Dealing With Comparative Negligence

Many states, including Florida, apply comparative negligence laws. This means that even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover damages, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Insurance companies may exaggerate your responsibility to pay less. A lawyer will defend you against unfair fault claims and ensure liability is accurately determined.

The Importance of Medical Evidence

Medical documentation is one of the most critical aspects of your case. A lawyer ensures that every medical visit, diagnosis, and treatment is properly recorded and presented. This evidence not only validates your injuries but also establishes the long-term financial impact they will have on your life.

The Emotional and Psychological Impact of Motorcycle Crashes

Motorcycle accidents often cause emotional distress beyond physical injuries. Victims may experience anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and loss of confidence in riding again.

A qualified lawyer recognizes these non-economic damages and includes them in your compensation demand, ensuring that your emotional suffering is acknowledged and valued.

Statute of Limitations: Don’t Wait Too Long

Every state sets a deadline for filing personal injury claims known as the statute of limitations. In Florida, this is typically two years from the date of the accident. Missing this window can permanently bar you from recovering damages.

By hiring a lawyer early, you ensure that all legal documents are filed on time and that vital evidence isn’t lost or destroyed.

When to Contact a Lawyer After an Accident

It’s best to consult an attorney as soon as possible after the crash. Here’s why:

  • Early Investigation: Crucial evidence like skid marks or surveillance footage can disappear quickly.

  • Medical Coordination: Lawyers can help ensure you receive proper medical treatment and documentation.

  • Legal Protection: They prevent insurance adjusters from manipulating your statements or pressuring you into unfair settlements.

If you’re in Florida, an experienced Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident lawyer can evaluate your case, guide you through the process, and help you recover the full compensation you deserve.

The Cost of Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Many victims hesitate to hire a lawyer because they fear high costs. However, most motorcycle accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:

  • You pay no upfront fees.

  • The lawyer only gets paid if you win.

  • Their fee is a percentage of your settlement or court award.

This arrangement allows you to access professional legal help without worrying about immediate financial strain.

Common Defenses Used by Insurance Companies

Insurance companies may use several tactics to avoid liability, such as:

“You Were Speeding or Lane Splitting”

They might claim your behavior contributed to the accident. Your lawyer will present counter-evidence, like witness statements or dashcam footage.

“You Weren’t Wearing a Helmet”

In states where helmet laws apply, insurers often use this argument to reduce compensation. However, lack of a helmet doesn’t automatically make you at fault.

“Your Injuries Aren’t Serious”

Insurers may downplay your injuries or claim they’re unrelated to the accident. Detailed medical records and expert testimony can disprove these assertions.

How an Attorney Maximizes Your Compensation

An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer does more than just file claims; they strategically build leverage. They calculate the true cost of your accident, including lost future income and long-term care. By accurately documenting your pain, suffering, and financial losses, they can negotiate or litigate for a settlement that truly reflects your damages.

Conclusion: Why the Right Lawyer Makes All the Difference

Motorcycle accidents can upend your life in an instant. Between physical injuries, emotional distress, and aggressive insurance companies, navigating the aftermath alone can be nearly impossible. A skilled lawyer doesn’t just represent you, they protect your rights, fight for fair compensation, and ensure your story is heard.

The difference between winning a fair settlement and losing everything often comes down to having the right attorney by your side. Don’t leave your future to chance. Consult a professional who understands the complexities of motorcycle accident law and can guide you toward justice and recovery.

Read full Article
post photo preview
A Data-Driven Look at the Holiday Spending Season

The 2025 holiday season promises a slate of new consumer behaviors in the United States.  Using key financial data points to predict patterns can help consumers, retailers and lenders successfully prepare for the holidays. 

Every year, Equifax publishes its Market Pulse Index, a value that analyzes key financial components and observes how they interact and evolve over time.  In 2025, the Market Pulse Index for the average US population is 61.4.  

Equifax also measures the index for specific generations, and has found that Gen Z has an index of only 58.6, suggesting that this generation is facing more financial challenges than others.  Examples of the financial challenges that could influence the Market Pulse Index include increasing delinquencies, income volatility and high savings rates. 

Despite these challenges, most Americans plan to do the same amount of holiday shopping in 2025 is expected to decrease by 23% in 2025.  This decrease in holiday purchases reflects the increased financial strife plaguing younger Americans.  

Other trends are emerging across generations.  For example, many Americans are shopping earlier in the year, with 80% of all planned holiday gift spending expected to occur by the end of Cyber Monday.  Domestic travel during the holidays is also on the rise.

By leveraging consumer financial data, it becomes easier to predict trends and anticipate how the 2025 holiday season will look for consumers, retailers and lenders. 

Read full Article
Available on mobile and TV devices
google store google store app store app store
google store google store app tv store app tv store amazon store amazon store roku store roku store
Powered by Locals