Proper Settlement Offer?

[Beth8113]

What is the name of your state? Ca

My son, a minor, was a passenger in an auto accident. The driver of the car in which my son was a passenger was found at fault. We are at the point where we are going to settle with the insurance company.

His total medical bills came to $600.00. I lost $100.00 in lost wages to take him to his physical therapy appointments.

The insurance company seems in a hurry to settle. I just sent them a recap of the bills. They haven't made an offer but I should be expecting it soon.

What would be a reasonable offer? I was told not to accept the first offer?

I've heard I should expect anywhere from 2 - 3times the bills. Is that correct?

Thanks!

[ALawyer]

The reasonable amount is one that will fairly compensate your son and you for the injury sustained without creating a major hassle for all involved.

You have said absoultely NOTHING about the nature of the injury, whether there are any permanent scars, or loss of function, or residual consequences, as could occur with traumatic brain injury. You have said nothing about possible FUTURE consequences. You have said nothing about the pain, if any incurred or its duration.

If all it was was a minor fender bender, no scars, no permanent injury, very short term discomfort, full recovery and no potential future consequences, sure, it is not worth much and 2 or 3 times medical bills has been a rule of thumb.

BUT if it is anything else, see a Personal Injury lawyer who actually practices in your area. Get a real professional. There is no cost to you as most lawyers -- at least on [url]www.AttorneyPages.com[/url] -- provide a free initial consultation on these matters. If the case is too trivial to take on, they'd tell you.

[Beth8113]

It was basically a fender bender. My son had about 6 - 8 weeks of discomfort. Physical Therapy seemed to have taken care of that. I don't think there will be any future pain and suffering. Thanks for your input. I'll expect 2-3 times the medical bills. At least that figure gives me something to go on.

Thanks!

[Beth8113]

Oh.. I forgot to ask. I did lose about $100.00 taking time off of work to take my minor son to his physical therapy appointments. Would it be expected that I get reimbursed for those lost wages? Or am I pushing the envelope?

I was not involved in the accident. Just my son and his friend.


Thanks.

Originally posted by Beth8113
Oh.. I forgot to ask. I did lose about $100.00 taking time off of work to take my minor son to his physical therapy appointments. Would it be expected that I get reimbursed for those lost wages? Or am I pushing the envelope?

I was not involved in the accident. Just my son and his friend.


Thanks.

Pushing the envelope? You're dragging it kicking and screaming

[stephenk]

what does the $600 represent? Exams only? Therapy and exams? how old is your son?

Dont expect much of an offer above $1500 if that.

[Beth8113]

My son is 15 yrs.

Breakdown is:

575.40 in medical (Dr. appts, medications and physical therapy)
$26.00 (property damaged in the vehicle)

I lost about $100.00 in wages to take my son to his appts but don't know if i can claim any of this $100.00. Anyone know?

I would think $1500.00 would be reasonable for pain and suffering.

But.. again.. not sure if I can ask for the $100.00 I lost?

Thanks

[stephenk]

The $1500 i mentioned would be the total settlement offer. Out of that amount you reimburse your son's medical providers. The remaining balance is for your son. If you want to take a $100 out of that amount, go ahead. I doubt your son would complain.