What a demand letter does
A demand letter tells the insurer what happened, why its insured is at fault, how you were hurt, what it cost you and how much you want to settle. A clear, documented letter often brings a better first offer than a phone call.
What to include
- The claim number, date and place of the accident
- A short, factual description of how it happened
- Your diagnosed injuries and the treatment you received
- An itemized list of medical bills and lost income, with copies attached
- How the injury affected daily life, work and sleep
- A specific demand and a date to respond
What to leave out
Do not admit fault, guess at medical issues your doctors have not confirmed, or send records you have not read. Keep emotion out and facts in. Do not include your full medical history; send records related to this injury.
When to send it
After you finish treatment or reach maximum medical improvement, so you know the full cost, and well before the filing deadline.
Questions people ask
How much should I demand?
Usually the high end of a reasonable range, so you have room to negotiate. The generator suggests economic damages plus a pain and suffering multiplier.
Should I send a demand letter myself or hire a lawyer?
For small, clear claims many people negotiate themselves. For serious injuries or disputed fault, a lawyer’s demand usually recovers more.