Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
[Check out AllAboutPersonalInjuryLaw.com!]
“As I was leaving work one evening (5:30), an SUV turned the corner from behind me, hit me & sent me flying, landing on my back. The driver claims she didn’t see me because it was dusk. I suffered multiple bruises, a broken toe, fractured arm . I went for therapy for 3 months to get my back kind of back to normal. I want to settle this. The insurance company is paying the bills but wants to settle the pain & suffering part for $3,000. I don’t feel this is anywhere near what I should receive. How do I figure what is fair? How do I chose a lawyer, if needed?”
You should consult with a personal injury attorney who is both experienced with auto injury litigation, and who is also experienced with the insurance company who is making the offer. Some insurance companies will lowball a first offer, with the full expectation that you will make a counter-offer and settle somewhere in the middle. However other insurance companies are known for never coming to the table, and always litigating, or for making a firm offer, and then jumping to litigation.
The best way to find a good personal injury attorney is by word of mouth. Ask your friends, family, and coworkers (who all presumably already know about the accident) if they have anybody that they recommend. If they don’t know a personal injury attorney, but do know another sort of attorney, contact that attorney and ask them who they recommend.
If you can’t get any personal referrals, nearly every state and county has a “trial lawyers” association. That is a euphemism for “personal injury lawyer” and you should be able to get a referral from them.
[Check out AllAboutPersonalInjuryLaw.com!]
