Auto Insurance Claims: bi injuries, neck soreness, test doc


Question
I was involved in an auto accident this past thursday.My vehicle was impacted @ its rear while i was waiting for the traffic light to turn.M vehicle has moderate to severe rear end damage and minor front end damage(i was pushed into the vehicle in front of me).At the moment of impact i kind of went blank,seeing stars for a few seconds until i regained my composure.I refused med assistance at the scene however after 2 days of a lingering headache and neck soreness i went to the er.They did a cat and X-ray of my head and upper neck.No visual problems appeared on either test.Doc gave me a 2 day off note and told me to take robaxin w/another painkiller i cant think of right now.How should i handle my negotiants w/this carrier that has alreasdy accepted liabilty.Shoud i retain a lawyer.should i request a settlement?

Answer
You and the carrier will need to come to an agreement on the value of your claim.  You could hire an attorney, but he/she will charge between 33% and 50% of your settlement.  Oftentimes people end up with far less than if they handled on their own.  It depends on how competently you can handle it and how reasonable the carrier is.  If they lowball you, an attorney might be worth it.

The value of your claim will include on your medical bills, lost wages, and a subjective amount for pain/suffering/aggravation/etc.  Do not settle until you have completed medical care and feel fine.  Once you sign the release, you can't go back, so you want to be sure there are no ongoing problems.

once done with care, send me the details and i can help you determine a fair value.