Auto Insurance Claims: auto accident, soft tissue injuries, carquest auto parts

Question
QUESTION: last friday 2-26 we had an accident 2 hours from home @ my daughter's softball tourney. i was @ a red light when a carquest auto parts truck ran the light from the other side came across & hit me head on. my 11 yr.old son was in the car with me. we didn't go to the hospital @ the time but my son went monday. i haven't been to the dr.but am having some back & shoulder issues. their insurance co.finally called today & is getting me a rental with nationwide tomorrow. my question is what am i looking for $$ wise on this claim. i've never dealt with this situation & have no idea. i assume my car was totaled, not sure, it's @ the towing service which is 2 hours away. any advice greatly appreciated! thanks!

ANSWER: Hi Mike,

It's too early to determine what you may be entitled to. First the insurance company will send a damage estimator to inspect your car. They will determine if the car is repairableor if it should be totaled. Generally the car will not be totaled unless the cost of repairs is at or above 75% of the value of the car. As far as your injuries are concerned, you should not discuss a settlement until you are confident that you and your son are feeling better. Then the settlement will be based on etype of injuries sustained and the cost of the medical bills. If the injuries are just typioal soft tissue injuries and there is not much treatment the insurance company will likely offer to pay the medical bills plus a few hundred dollars for pain & suffering in exchange for a full release. You will be able to negotiate a little but based on your statements this is not a claim that will be worth a great deal.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: is there a time limit on me going to the doctor? i'm not dying or anything & i'm not trying to swindle the insurance co. this happened 6 days ago & my back is still bothering me. i have been working since and have to work tomorrow. so i will either have to go to the ER or the local rapid care clinic on saturday. do i file it under my health insurance or are they supposed to pay for it? thanks

Answer
Hi Mike,

There is no specific time limit. However, the longer you wait the harder it is to prove that you went because of the accident. So go get the treatment you need. You should also call the insurance company to inform them of your injuries and that you will be seeking medical treatment. That way it will be on the record.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh