Settlements are a common method to seek compensation after a car accident, but with so many components and steps involved in the settlement process, many accident victims feel overwhelmed and confused in the aftermath of a car crash. Navigating each stage can be especially challenging for New Yorkers who are also in the physical and emotional recovery process after a car accident. Whether your injuries are considered severe, moderate, or minor, pursuing a settlement is often beneficial to access the compensation you need and deserve.

You may be able to seek financial damages regardless of the severity of your injuries, but speaking with an experienced NYC car accident attorney is the best way to get personalized answers about your options. The Mark E. Seitelman Law Offices have been helping injured New Yorkers for over 30 years. Our targeted experience and compassionate, client-centered approach have made us a trusted source of legal representation across all five boroughs.

Understanding Car Accident Settlement Letters​

One of the first steps in the settlement process is the drafting and issuing of a settlement letter. A car accident settlement letter generally describes details of your accident, the injuries you’ve suffered as a result, and the expenses and damages you are pursuing compensation for. This letter is sent to the at-fault party’s representative, who is most often their insurance company.

Anatomy of a Car Accident Settlement Letter​

There are certain elements that should typically be included in a settlement letter. Your NYC car accident attorney will know exactly what to include so that your letter is tailored specifically to your case, but the following are usually included:

  • Your name and contact information

  • A subject line

  • An introduction with the accident details

  • A description of your injuries, medical needs, and treatments

  • A list of all damages, including lost wages and pain and suffering

  • Your demand for compensation

  • A closing statement

A more in-depth explanation of some of these components may be helpful. For the subject line, it’s best to include clear details of the purpose of the letter and be relatively short. When describing the accident, most settlement letters include information like the date and location of the accident, as well as any other relevant details about what happened.

You may want to include the following when describing your injuries and treatment:

  • Diagnoses

  • Completed treatments or procedures

  • Ongoing medical issues

  • Anticipated future medical needs

In the list of damages, the letter should include itemized medical costs, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Your attorney can help you determine what damages you may be entitled to and calculate the total settlement demand.

Guidelines for Crafting an Effective Car Accident Settlement Letter​

Settlement letters in New York are formal documents, and there are some best practices to keep in mind.

  • Keep the wording concise and avoid emotionally-charged language.

  • Only include facts.

  • Attach relevant documentation, like medical bills.

  • Be specific and clear when describing how your injuries have impacted you.

  • Pay attention to the tone of the letter to ensure it remains professional and respectful.

  • Avoid sending letters with errors by proofreading.

The Role of a Car Accident Attorney in Your Case​

While it may seem simple and straightforward to write a letter about your car accident, this process is deceptively difficult. Having an experienced attorney draft this document for you can save you time, energy, and stress, as well as give you a better chance at a successful settlement outcome. Here are some of the ways that one of our NYC car accident attorneys may be able to help:

  • Determine the value of your claim: Our attorneys know which factors to include to ensure your settlement demand represents the complete picture of the damages you’ve suffered.

  • Gathering evidence to support your claim: We know what documents and evidence are needed to create a compelling, comprehensive case, such as police reports, medical records, and expert witness statements.

  • Communicating your damages persuasively: It’s crucial that the extent of your injuries and the impact the accident has had on your life are articulated clearly.

  • Keeping track of requirements and deadlines: Working with skilled NYC lawyers ensures your case is not jeopardized by missed deadlines or broken rules.

  • Negotiating settlement terms: Insurance companies try to pay out as little as possible in car accident settlements, which is why we fight tirelessly for fair compensation.

  • Litigating claims after negotiations: If the insurance company refuses to offer appropriate compensation, we are prepared to represent you if litigation becomes necessary.

What to Expect After Dispatching a Car Accident Settlement Letter​

Because sending a settlement letter is one of the first steps in the car accident settlement process, you should anticipate numerous additional steps before reaching a resolution to your claim. In rare instances, the insurance company may accept the demand outlined in your letter. It’s more likely that the insurance company will do one of the following after you send the settlement letter:

  • Reject your demand for damages.

  • Make a counteroffer as a start to negotiations.

The chances are high that any counteroffer the insurer makes will not be sufficient to cover the extent of your damages, even if your injuries were minor. Discuss the counteroffer with your attorney to determine whether or not you should accept it, reject it, or make your own counteroffer.

Supplementary Documents to Accompany Your Car Accident Settlement Letter​

The exact documents you will need to provide with your settlement letter will vary depending on the details of your accident, but most often, the following are helpful:

  • Police report

  • Medical records

  • Documentation of lost wages

  • Relevant bills, like medical and repair bills

  • Video footage

  • Eyewitness statements

  • Photographs

  • Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses

  • Expert witness statements and opinions

When to Consult a New York Car Accident Lawyer

Don’t underestimate how difficult drafting a car accident settlement letter can be. The attorneys at the Mark E. Seitelman Law Offices have decades of experience navigating the settlement process and can guide you through each step with the goal of reaching a favorable settlement outcome. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.