- By: David J. Zappitell
- personal injury
- Jun 20
- Comments (0)
Tips from a Delray Beach Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in an accident where another party was at fault, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is what to do when a settlement offer comes in. Understanding how to get the best injury settlement can make the difference between walking away with what you truly deserve and settling for far less.
The insurance company may act like they’re helping, but their goal is to close the case quickly and cheaply. Before you sign anything, it’s worth knowing exactly what you’re entitled to.
At Zappitell Law Firm, we’ve spent decades fighting for clients across South Florida. One of the most important steps in negotiating a settlement is understanding the tactics insurance companies use. You need facts, a solid strategy, and a legal team that knows how to protect your interests.
Let’s break it down.
The Truth About Early Settlement Offers
Most early settlement offers are made to benefit the insurance company, not you
Here’s why:
- Your full injuries might not be diagnosed yet.
- You may not know how long you’ll miss work.
- The offer likely ignores long-term treatment or pain and suffering.
As someone who’s handled hundreds of cases, I can tell you this is one of the top lessons in how to get the best injury settlement: don’t take the first offer.
One of our clients was injured in a bicycle accident after being hit by a pickup truck near Atlantic Avenue. We fought and secured a $1,000,000 settlement because we knew the actual value of their long-term care and recovery.
One of our clients was injured in a bicycle accident after being hit by a pickup truck near Atlantic Avenue. We fought and secured a $1,000,000 settlement because we knew the actual value of their long-term care and recovery.
What Should a Fair Settlement Include?
A fair settlement goes well beyond your ER bill.
You need to account for:
- All current and future medical costs
- Lost income and any reduction in future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Rehab, therapy, or permanent disability care
- Property damage and out-of-pocket expenses
In another Palm Beach County case, we represented a client seriously hurt in a motorcycle crash. Their original offer from the insurer was low. We pushed back, built a strong case, and recovered $600,000.
This is what real advocacy looks like. Knowing how to get the best injury settlement means knowing what to demand and refusing to accept less.
Local Accidents, Real Scenarios
Picture this: you’re rear-ended in a car crash near George Bush Blvd and Federal Highway. You’re treated at Bethesda Hospital and back home within a few hours. The other driver’s insurer calls and offers $18,000 to settle everything. You’re sore, tired, and unsure, so it sounds like a relief.
But two weeks later, your neck and back pain intensify. You start missing work. You learn physical therapy might take months. Suddenly, that check won’t even come close to what you really need.
Now, consider a real example from June 11 in Downtown Delray Beach. A scooter rider heading down SE 3rd Street toward 5th Avenue was struck by an SUV. He hit the pavement, injured his head and leg, and suffered hand lacerations. He followed our advice on what to do after an accident, had a friend document the scene, and went to Delray Beach Medical Center on Linton Blvd.
Even with strong documentation, he still needs a Delray Beach injury lawyer to fight for a proper settlement. Insurance companies don’t offer their best numbers up front. They hope you’ll settle quickly and cheaply. That’s why real legal help matters.
What a Delray Beach Injury Lawyer Actually Does
One of the most important tips from a Delray Beach injury lawyer is this: a fair settlement doesn’t happen by accident.
We fight on your behalf by:
- Gather medical records and expert opinions
- Document lost wages and job impacts
- Interview witnesses and preserve evidence
- Negotiate aggressively or file suit if needed
We also take the time to understand what your future looks like, not just your past expenses.
If litigation is necessary, we’re fully prepared. Insurance companies know who will push hard and who will fold.
When they see Zappitell Law is representing you, they know we’re not afraid of court. That pressure often leads to better offers for our clients.
In one of our most significant cases, we represented the family of a college student who tragically lost her life as a passenger in a rear-end collision. The at-fault driver caused a traffic backup, leading to the crash. Despite the insurance policy being limited to $25,000, the insurance company refused to pay the policy limits.
We filed a personal injury lawsuit and pursued a bad faith claim against the insurer. We reached a total resolution of over $11,000,000, including attorney’s fees. This case is a clear example of what happens when an injury law firm is fully prepared to litigate rather than settle for less than what a client truly deserves.
Don’t Guess, Get Answers Before You Sign Anything
Many people call us after they’ve already been offered a settlement and want to know if it’s fair. That’s exactly when you should reach out. One of the best tips from a Delray Beach injury lawyer is to never assume the offer reflects the real value of your case.
Sometimes, a quick review of your paperwork reveals obvious gaps. Other times, we may need to fully investigate and challenge the offer. In both situations, you benefit from legal insight and local experience.
Don’t Settle Without Talking to Us First
Before you agree to any offer, let Zappitell Law take a look. We’ll review your case, walk you through your options, and help you decide your next move with confidence.
Knowing how to get the best injury settlement starts with the right team behind you. We’re here to help you make the most informed decision possible.
Let a proven Delray Beach accident injury lawyer give you the clarity you need before you give up your rights. Click here or give us a call at (561) 330-6330.
About the Author:
David J. Zappitell is the founder of Zappitell Law Firm. He is a board-certified civil trial lawyer with over 30 years of experience representing clients in car accident cases. David is known for his personal, hands-on approach and dedication to securing full compensation for accident victims and their families.