What can I reasonably expect from an auto accident settlement?

Question:

I was involved in a car accident a little over a month ago. There were 6 cars involved, 4 of which were totalled. I was car number 4. One person was determined responsible for the entire accident. Unfortunately, of course he didn't carry enough insurance to pay for all of the cars involved, so my insurance had to pay for mine. My lost wages and medical bills total over $7 thousand. According to all I've read, I am ENTITLED to the very least 2 times the amount as pain and suffering in addition to medical bills. I was in alot of pain and on some days I still am. The morons insurance has told my husband they will only make a one time offer as settlement and that it's "just a rumor" at what I'm entitled to. What can I reasonably expect? My car was totalled, which was not paid off, I've had to purchase another car, and I do have high medical bills and I have lost work. Will the other persons insurance actually only make 1 settlement offer?

Answer:
This is a tricky situation. First, wait to receive the insurance offer. Who knows, it may be reasonably attractive. Their incentive is to save time and money. They really don't want to have to go to court over this. So, they may not low-ball you as much as the others think.

Second, if you do need a lawyer realize that lawyers are very expensive. They certainly don't work for nearly free as one other answer suggests. Depending on where you live a lawyer will either cost you between $150 to $300 an hour. Or, he won't charge you anything upfront. But, he will take a 30% to 40% cut of the settlement. You can imagine how that may cost you a lot more than paying the lawyer hourly.

In view of the above, here is what I would do. Research the law like you have. But, also research upfront how much a lawyer will cost you for such a case. Next, wait for the insurance company's offer and analyze it. If the insurance company's offer appears nearly as great as what you expect the court settlement to be less your legal cost, then take the insurance settlement. Courts and lawyers are an extremely labor intensive and costly business.

If you need me to clarify any of the above, don't hesitate to contact me through "Answer."

you need to contact a lawyer to see if its actually "just a rumor" or if they are trying to bully you into settling for less. they make actually only make 1 offer, but that doesnt matter if you can take them to court and get more

Your situation seems to necessitate an attorney. Good luck.

You definitely need a lawyer on this one. Insurance companies are notorious for trying to get people to settle for less than they can get legally...it's their JOB to keep costs down. They will LIE to you about what your rights are. An attorney will know what the laws are in your case and in your state. They only get paid if you win your settlement. Call a lawyer. At the very least, they can tell you over the phone what your rights are and if you have a case that they are willing to take on.

What can I reasonably expect from an auto accident settlement?

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