Navigating Insurance Negotiations After a Houston Car Accident
When you're hurt in a car accident in Houston, you're suddenly forced into a world you never wanted to be in—doctor’s appointments, car repairs, missed work, and stress about the future. And then there's the insurance company. While adjusters may sound friendly on the phone, they're not on your side. They're trained to minimize what they pay. That’s why knowing how to handle insurance negotiations after a car accident is absolutely critical.
As a personal injury attorney who helps accident victims across Texas every day, I’m here to walk you through how to protect yourself, strengthen your claim, and avoid common mistakes that could cost you thousands.
The Reality of Insurance Companies After a Crash
Insurance companies operate as for-profit businesses. Every dollar they don’t pay out in claims goes to their bottom line. Even your own insurance company—if you're filing an uninsured/underinsured motorist claim—has a financial incentive to limit your payout.
Despite the TV commercials and slogans, their job isn't to look out for your best interests.
"After a serious crash, the last thing you should have to worry about is fighting with an insurance company. But unfortunately, that's often exactly what it takes to get justice."
— Amy Dunn, Houston Injury Attorney
What You Must Do Immediately After the Accident
Your actions in the first few hours and days after the crash can significantly impact your claim. Here’s what to prioritize:
1. Get Medical Attention
Always seek medical care—even if you feel okay. Some injuries (like whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding) aren’t obvious right away. Seeing a doctor creates a medical record that connects your injuries to the accident, which is critical for your claim.
2. Report the Accident
You’re legally required to report the crash to the police if there’s injury, death, or significant property damage. Ask for a copy of the police report—it becomes key evidence during negotiations.
3. Document Everything
Take photos of the scene, your injuries, vehicle damage, road conditions, and anything else relevant. Gather names and contact info of witnesses. Keep all bills, receipts, and notes related to the crash and your recovery.
When the Insurance Company Calls—Proceed with Caution
The at-fault driver’s insurance adjuster may call within days, even hours, after the crash. You are not required to speak with them right away, and you should never provide a recorded statement without legal guidance.
Don’t Fall for These Tactics
Lowball Offers Early On: Insurers often offer a quick payout hoping you’ll accept before knowing the full cost of your injuries.
Recorded Statements: These are used to twist your words or trap you into minimizing your pain.
Delay Tactics: They may drag things out in hopes you’ll give up or settle for less out of desperation.
"Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators. Unless you do this every day, you're already at a disadvantage. My job is to level the playing field."
— Amy Dunn, Houston Injury Lawyer
Key Factors That Affect Your Settlement Value
Understanding what goes into evaluating a claim can help you stand firm in negotiations.
1. Medical Expenses (Past and Future)
All treatment costs, therapy, medications, and anticipated future medical needs are considered.
2. Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
If you missed work or your injury impacts your ability to work going forward, those losses matter.
3. Pain and Suffering
Physical pain, emotional distress, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life are real damages.
4. Property Damage
Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and any personal items inside.
5. Liability Disputes
Who was at fault and whether liability is being contested will influence your claim’s strength.
Should You Accept the First Offer?
In almost every case—no. First offers are rarely fair and are often just a starting point. Accepting too soon can leave you with unpaid medical bills or out-of-pocket expenses later.
Negotiating is a back-and-forth process. You are allowed to reject offers and submit counterdemands with documentation backing up your position. A strong demand letter prepared by an attorney often changes the tone of negotiations immediately.
When to Bring in a Personal Injury Lawyer
You don’t need to handle this alone—and you shouldn’t. If your injuries are serious, if liability is unclear, or if you’re getting the runaround from an insurance company, it’s time to involve a skilled attorney.
Signs You Need Legal Help:
You’ve suffered a traumatic injury or hospitalization
You’re being blamed for the accident unfairly
The insurer denies or delays your claim
You're feeling overwhelmed or confused by the process
"My clients come to me tired, hurt, and anxious about the future. My role is to carry the burden of dealing with the insurance company so they can focus on healing."
— Amy Dunn, Houston Injury Lawyer
Why Negotiating Alone Can Cost You
According to a 2014 Insurance Research Council study, injury victims who hired legal representation received 3.5 times more in settlement payouts on average compared to those without a lawyer.
And in catastrophic injury cases, the difference could be life-changing.
Tips to Protect Yourself in Car Accident Insurance Negotiations
✅ Be polite, but guarded in conversations
✅ Don’t admit fault or speculate about the accident
✅ Stick to the facts when speaking to adjusters
✅ Keep copies of everything you send or receive
✅ Don’t post about the crash on social media
✅ Never sign anything without legal review
You Deserve More Than a Quick Payout
If you’ve been seriously injured in a Houston car accident, you deserve compensation that truly reflects what you’ve lost—not just what the insurance company wants to pay. This isn’t just about money. It’s about justice. It's about security for your future and your family.
Negotiating with insurance companies is a battle. But it’s one you don’t have to fight alone.
Ready to Fight for What You’re Owed?
If you’re overwhelmed or unsure about what comes next, let’s talk. Amy Dunn is an experienced Houston car accident lawyer who will stand by your side, protect your rights, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Don't wait for the insurance company to play games with your recovery. Take control of your case today.
Contact Amy Dunn now for a free consultation and case review. Let’s get your life back on track—starting now.