How much from a traffic accident claim?
I was recently involved in a traffic accident where it wasn't my fault. I was stopped at a red light yielding to traffic trying to make a right turn when someone rear-ended me at about 20-30 mph. I have gone to see the doctor and chiropractor for whiplash and a few other bruises, but nothing serious. I kept getting the runaround by my unresponsive insurance company. So, I began working with a lawyer who is going to put in a claim based on my physical injuries as well as emotional distress I've had for the last several days (get nervous just riding in a car). My question is: is there a typical amount beyond the medical bills that I can expect? That is, is there a typical settlement amount for a situation like this?
Please no answers related to how you hate lawyers or that the lawyer will take 1/3rd. Just give me an idea (if you have any) of what you think the claim is worth. Give me a range you think is reasonable. THAT's IT!!!!
March 21st, 2011 - 10:37
“So, I began working with a lawyer who is going to put in a claim based on my physical injuries as well as emotional distress I’ve had for the last several days”
That being the case, since he will take a third of whatever you get for his services, that will be the place to ask any and all questions regarding your situation, not here.
March 21st, 2011 - 11:00
You don’t say where this loss occurred. The threshold requirements vary from state to state. Some are monetary, others are verbal, and in some states you need to sustain a serious injury. A whiplash injury would not be considered serious. You also need to prove your alleged anxiety. You need medical proof before such an allegation is considered.
Your claim will be evaluated after you have stopped treatment. It is evaluated based on the nature and extent of your injury, disability and treatment. Assuming you do not live in a state where PIP coverage is mandatory(PIP pays for your meds and lost wages), your medical expenses and any lost wages will be included.
Case value also varies from state to state. A simple soft tissue injury in MA would settle for $4k(assuming you treated for at least 12 weeks), but the same injury would settle for $6k or so in CT.
You should direct your question to your attorney who will be taking at least 1/3 of any settlement.
March 21st, 2011 - 11:06
You have a soft tissue injury that will heal in a short amount of time. With this being said, don’t expect a lot..plus with the fact your retained counsel which will take 33% off the top.
Who ever said an attorney is the best way to go. The only reason they’re asking for a large amount of money is to put more in their pocket.
This is one reason that insurance premiums are skyrocketing out of control. Everyone is sue happy trying to get rich.