If you feel you have reached the stage where you wish to accept an offer, then you need to write to your employer telling them that you will accept the offer 'subject to contract'. This means that while you are willing to do the deal, the deal isn't done until you've signed the contract.
Once you accept a settlement offer, you will usually sign an agreement releasing the other party from any further liability connected to your claim. This means you forfeit the right to seek additional compensation for the incident.
A minimum period of at least 21 days must be given to consider accepting the offer. During this period, if the offer is made by the Defendants, then they, the party making the offer is liable for all costs - this is known as the Relevant Period.
Always reject a settlement offer in writing. Type a letter to your contact at the insurance company listing the reasons you think that their offer is too low. Back up these reasons with concrete evidence attached to the letter. Finally, provide a counteroffer of a sum you think is more reasonable.
This letter should clearly state the reasons for rejecting the offer, such as it not providing maximum compensation for the damages incurred. Provide specific reasons for your rejection, highlighting the damages and losses not covered by the proposed settlement.
Dear Mr./Ms. Adjuster: Pursuant to our phone conversation on insert date, please accept this letter as confirmation that we have agreed to settle, in full, my above-referenced claim for personal injuries for the amount of: Agreed to Final Settlement Amount. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
If you are not happy with the settlement agreement, then there are a number of routes you can take. You can reject the agreement outright and make a claim to the employment tribunal. Such a claim would need to be made within 3 months (less one day) from the last day of your employment.
However, refusing a settlement offer does extend the life of your claim and delays when you receive compensation. If you have pressing medical bills or other expenses, this is a factor to consider. You'll also need to invest more time and energy into your case, including providing more documentation of your damages.