When settling with an auto insurance company after a car accident, what is an appropriate amount to request?
Andrea asked:
I hurt my neck (muscle strain, nothing broken) in a car accident and have exhaused the Personal Injury Protection with the insurance company. They said to call them after my physical therapy was completed to settle for the pain and suffering. The neck pain is still there and will most likely be chronic regardless of any additional physical therapy. I’ve heard that people are typically given 2X the amount of medical expenses. I don’t want to hire a lawyer but don’t want to get less than I deserve either. Any advice on how much to ask for would be appreciated.
Lawyers Attorneys FAQs
I hurt my neck (muscle strain, nothing broken) in a car accident and have exhaused the Personal Injury Protection with the insurance company. They said to call them after my physical therapy was completed to settle for the pain and suffering. The neck pain is still there and will most likely be chronic regardless of any additional physical therapy. I’ve heard that people are typically given 2X the amount of medical expenses. I don’t want to hire a lawyer but don’t want to get less than I deserve either. Any advice on how much to ask for would be appreciated.
Lawyers Attorneys FAQs
Related Topics :
May 10, 2009 | Filed Under Accidents & Personal Injuries Lawyers
Comments
3 Responses to “When settling with an auto insurance company after a car accident, what is an appropriate amount to request?”
Page 1 of 0
total up any medical bills that aren’t paid, how much work time you’ve lost. ask the dr if he can give you a disability rating if there are going to be on-going problems. you might want to see if the insurance company has an arbitrator that you can work with instead of hiring an attorney. or call an attorney for advice and ask how much he thinks you can get (just because you get advice from him doesn’t mean you have to hire him)
Generally, without a lawyer, you most likely will only get your medical bills paid for and/or reimbursed if you are not to blame.You can try and get compensated for
Lost earnings
Vehicle repairs
Alternative travel expenses whilst your vehicle was off the road
Private medical treatment
Medication
Items damaged in the car
If your bills, punitive damages, and lost wages amount to less than $10,000.00, you can sue for these costs yourself in small claims court(must pay filing fee)-remember the others’ insurance lawyer will be there and a person who acts as his/her own lawyer, has a fool for a lawyer. Depending on the severity, you could win from $5,000.00- $500,000.00 dollars.If they can even remotely put partial blame on you, even if you weren’t and the other party was, ticketed, you may not get what you want. The longer you waited to see a doctor, the less you are likely to win(NOTE: 2 years to sue after the incident). Your case will be stronger with witnesses. The best advice would be to speak with a lawyer. The 1st consultation is usually free and they will take it for a portion of the settlement.Visit naturescorner.com, my website.
You need to consult with an accident attorney in your area that is familiar with how the insurance industry works in regards to accident settlements. You have rights.