Auto Insurance Claims: Unisured Motorist Claim, uninsured motorist coverage, brain trauma

Question
Dear Mr. Hixenbaugh,
My husband was rear ended by an uninsured mortorist who was texting. He sustained some minor brain trauma and received treatment. We have uninsured motorist coverage fortunately. Our car was totaled. We received a some to buy another not enough to really replace the one we had but we got a decent car and took out a loan for the rest for $5000. The insurance company has paid his medical bills. We pay for the maximum PIP on our policy.
They are offering us $2000 as a final settlement of the uninsured motorist Bodily Injury portion of the claim. Is this reasonable? We don't have a point of reference. Originally they offered $1000 when it first happened and before my husband completed treatment.They say we have until 1/11 to respond at which time the offer will be withdrawn. What does that imply exactly?
Thank you so much for being available for people like us who have limited knowledge and limited disposable income.
Yours truly,
Lucille Celestino

Answer
Hi Lucille,

What the insurance company's statement implies is that they are trying to scare you into accepting a settlement that is far below what it should be. Do not be fooled by the fact that this is your own insurance company. They will use any means necessary to pay you as little as possible.

Your settlement should be at least 3 to 4 times the total of all of the medical bills incurred by your husband. So as an example if the medical bills total $10,000.00 his settlement should be for $30,000 to $40,000.

Considering that they are already trying to take advantage of you, it would be a good idea for you and your husband to speak to an attorney. He or she can look into your entire claim and advise you better as to what you should expect.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh