How much am I really entitled to in a personal injury car accident?

Question

I was in a car accident about 5 months ago. A truck ran a red light and T-boned my car at about 35 mph. I suffered whiplash, missed work, couldn't do what I was planning on doing for vacation later on that same week. I have about $5800 in medical bills and another 1000 in lost wages. The insurance company wants to give me 2000 on top of my medical bills. It seems kind of low. I was expecting more like 8 grand on top since I was told I'm entitled to 3 times the amount. I have read up on how insurance companies want to save a buck and I'm not trying to rip them off, but I do expect to get compensated for the pain and suffering I went through as well as missing time from work and a wasted vacation. I'm trying to only use a lawyer as a last resort. Any suggestions on how much I should get?

Answer 1

There is nothing wrong with retaining a lawyer. The way an insurance company saves money is by low balling accident victims such as yourself. An average settlement, with what you've paid in medical cost and lost wages, would be in the 15-20 grand range. Personal injury lawyers are skilled negotiators and will definitely get you many times more than the 2000 the insurance company is offering.

Answer 2

I would ask for more. You don't want to rip them off, but only $2000 seems low. But of course they always start low. I would ask for $5000. If they won't negotiate, call a lawyer. Usually all it takes is a 5 minute phone call from them to the insurance company, and you get what you deserve. Talk to the insurance company and ask for more. If they say no, inform them you intend to contact an attorney.

Answer 3

Call your local ambulance chaisng lawyer and ask them. Hopefully you have seen a doctor and they have good notes. That is what makes or breaks a personal injury case.