In a personal injury case, a demand letter is:
- A letter sent to the insurance company that lays out what happened and how it’s left you with injuries and other losses. It’s basically the first big step in resolving the case without going to court.
Facing an insurance company can be intimidating, even when it feels like you have a solid case. That’s when our team at Maison Law can step in and handle things. To talk through your options, reach out today for a free consultation.
What Goes Into a Demand Letter?
Although it’s an important step, we send a demand letter, we make sure we have all the pieces of your case in order. The goal is to give the insurance company a complete picture of what you’ve been through and why a fair settlement matters. So while every case is different, a demand letter is going to include things like:
- A letter that walks through the accident in plain language and explains why the other party is responsible.
- A detailed summary of your injuries and how they’ve impacted your day-to-day life.
- Organized records and bills, from medical statements to repair estimates.
- A breakdown of all your damages, including medical costs, lost income, emotional distress, and the ways your life has changed.
- A proposed settlement amount aimed at resolving your case without having to go to court.
The demand letter gives the insurance company a clear snapshot of your claim and opens the door to negotiations. It also sets the stage for the next steps if the insurance company doesn’t respond to the demand.
What Happens After a Demand Letter is Sent?
Once your demand letter is sent to the insurance company, what happens next depends on their response. If they make a fair offer, you can accept it, get your check, and move forward.
But sometimes the insurance process doesn’t go that smoothly. They might:
- Delay your claim
- Offer less than what your damages are worth
- Make decisions about your losses while ignoring the demand
When that happens, taking your case to court may be the best way to protect your rights. A lawsuit can take more time and effort, but it also gives you the chance to recover what you truly need. During this process, our team handles the key parts for you, including:
- Filing a Complaint in civil court
- Managing all important legal paperwork
- Gathering and sharing evidence
- Preparing you for depositions and court hearings
- Talking to witnesses and consulting experts
- Negotiating settlements and exploring mediation
- Getting your case ready for trial, including presenting it in front of a judge and jury
Every claim moves differently, but one thing stays the same: we’re with you every step of the way. We’ll keep you updated, help you make informed decisions, and focus on what matters most—making sure you have the support you need to get back on your feet. Set up a free consultation with our California personal injury lawyers today, and let Maison Law help you through this process.