How much is fair to ask for?

[hengwen]

What is the name of your state? Oregon
In January while picking up my son from work at night at a cafe on city property I slipped on a patch of black ice and broke my ankle in 5 places. My son said the management knew about the ice and told him to try to keep a rubber mat over it, but it had slipped off. After insurance, I'm responsible for over $7000 in medical bills. I hestitated to even ask for that because I'm self-employed and the city is one of my best clients. I've started a letter and now am wondering if I should ask for "pain & suffering" and how much? It will probably be at least a year before I fully recover and I had to turn down work from other clients for 3 months while I was on crutches (I'm a graphic designer and photographer). Should I come up with a figure or ask them to make an offer? How do I word this request/demand without alienating this important client? How much is fair to ask for?

[ablessin]

It's unfortunate that you slipped and fell, however, I don't think suing is the best option.

You're not going to make friends if you sue!!! They're a client? And you want to sue a client? That will go over like a lead balloon.

You could ask them to help cover the non covered medical expenses, however, you're going to sink yourself if you file a law suit

[hengwen]

Thanks for your reply. I never said I wanted to sue, quite the opposite! However I am writing them a letter requesting payment of medical bills and believe some other compensation is appropriate as well. Is suing someone the only way to get that?

[ablessin]

Originally Posted by hengwen

Thanks for your reply. I never said I wanted to sue, quite the opposite! However I am writing them a letter requesting payment of medical bills and believe some other compensation is appropriate as well. Is suing someone the only way to get that?

Hopefully not! I hope that they come forth and help with the medical expenses. Sorry - everyone is so "sue happy" - I apologize for jumping the gun in your case.

Write them, explain the situation and say that you're asking for assistance paying the bills. I would guess even asking for half is not unreasonable