Personal Injury Settlement FAQs
Last updated on July 8, 2026
At Glenda Mitchell Law Firm, we regularly hear questions from injured people from Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina who are unsure about their settlements. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive.
What is a settlement?
A settlement is a legally binding agreement in which, as an injured person, you accept financial compensation in exchange for resolving your claim against the at-fault party without going to trial. It helps avoid the courtroom expenses and delays.
A settlement typically begins with a demand letter to the insurance company outlining the facts of the accident, the injuries sustained, medical expenses and other damages. Once the insurer accepts the demand, negotiations start. After an acceptable agreement is reached, you sign a release and the insurer issues payment.
Is a settlement different from a verdict?
Yes, a settlement is a voluntary agreement reached between the injured party and the at-fault party’s insurer. In contrast, a verdict is a decision issued by a judge or a jury after a trial, especially if the parties cannot reach an agreement.
Are settlement offers negotiable?
Yes, settlement offers are always negotiable. Insurance companies frequently begin with an offer that is lower than the claim’s actual value. After the first offer, your attorney can help negotiate based on the severity of your injuries, lost income and future financial losses.
It is also important to understand state-specific liability rules during negotiations. Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, while Georgia and South Carolina use modified comparative negligence systems. These rules can significantly affect the value of a claim and settlement.
If I accept a settlement offer, is it final?
Yes. Once you accept a settlement and sign the release form, the agreement becomes binding and generally prevents you from seeking additional compensation related to the same accident. It is good to have a personal injury lawyer to ensure you receive an offer that reflects your damages.
Take Action Today
Our personal injury attorneys can help you evaluate settlement offers and negotiate with insurance companies. Contact Glenda Mitchell Law Firm by calling us at 770-637-5590 or emailing us to get started.