I was stopped at a traffic light and was hit from behind by a driver who reached down for a paper that slid off his seat. He was going 50 miles per hour by his own admission. My truck was pushed through the intersection over a hundred feet. My wife and I were transported to the hospital. I have no recollection of the accident.
the first thing I remember was the hospital. My wife and I both suffered mild to moderate concussions, but only her doctor wrote it down on her paperwork. We were released to be under observation for 3 days.
I missed my only brother’s wedding because of this and was out of work for a couple of months. Both our medical bills total about $27,000. My family says I am “not quite the same”, but I don’t see it. I feel fine. I hate to drive now and refuse to drive at night. But other than that we are okay.
I don’t know what to ask for compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Any tips? How much should I ask for? Thanks.
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Answer
Dear A,
While you and your wife’s combined medical bills amount to $27,000, to answer your specific question about the amount of money you should demand from the negligent driver’s insurance company will require a consideration of your specific and individual medical bills.
In most cases, the injured party’s medical bills play a dominant role in the evaluation of a settlement demand.
While your wife’s doctor committed to writing a diagnosis of her brain concussion, the doctor failed to do the same for you. Without a diagnosis of a specific type of injury resulting from the crash, your claim, and the amount of settlement you may be entitled to, will be lessened.
There is no doubt you sustained a serious injury. The question is what type of injury that was. Your facts don’t state whether or not you suffered whiplash, lasting symptoms of pain, or other illness resulting from the crash.
A diagnosed injury will support a higher settlement. In your case, you would not be wrong in requesting an amount of money equal to about three times the amount of your medical bills. Your wife’s demand, especially in light of her diagnosis of a brain concussion should be higher. Regardless, you should meet with an attorney to discuss the specifics.
Learn more here: Alaska Car Accident Guide
The above is general information. Laws change frequently, and across jurisdictions. You should get a personalized case evaluation from a licensed attorney.
Find a local attorney to give you a free case review here, or call 888-972-0892.
We wish you the best with your claim,
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