Auto Insurance Claims: Auto Liab settling, better business bureau, health insurer

Question
I was involved in a front end collision in Georgia that totalled my car. The other driver was cited and the physical damage part of the claim has been settled.  The airbag deployed and I suffered a neck whiplash. I also ended up with badly bruised ribs.  No other injuries other than a nasty burn from the airbag and my torn slacks.  I have gone to physical therapy for a couple months and my medical bills total about 4-5,000.  I have a few questions:

First, my health insurer has been on the hook for the bills other than the first $1,000 that my own auto carrier covered.  Will I have to repay them when I get the settlement?

Second, what amount should I seek?  I have always heard 3x medical bills.  My neck feels almost back to where it was before the accident and I have waited to make sure no other medical issues arose.

Answer
Hi Jeniffer,

3 times the medical bills is a general rule of thumb. However, the insurance company will likely try to low ball you. There is a great website you should visit: www.collisionwizard.com  It is produced by the Better Business Bureau Vidoe Series. It allows you to enter all of the information about your accident, treatment, bedical bills, etc. It will help you write your demand package and it will even provide an appropriate settlement range. It only costs $19.95 to use the system and it will provide you with much assistance.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh