Auto Insurance Claims: scar follow-up question, inch scar, daughter age

Question
Her ER visit, stitches, chiropractic visits have all already been covered by this insurance company.  The $3500 is just for the scar - it is not terribly noticeable, but it is is permanent - won't get any better than it is now.  It does not affect her social life or self-confidence and does not require any further medical care.

Thanks!

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> Date: Mon, 13 Aug 2012 22:44:42 +0000
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> My daughter, age 17, has a 2 inch scar near her eyebrow as the result of an accident in which she was rear-ended by another vehicle. The insurance company is offering $3500 for settlement of the scar. How do I know if this is fair? Should I ask for more? We live in Minnesota, btw.
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> Thanks!
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> Following is the reason:
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> I need a little more information....
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> 1. Since I do not know Minnesota law, I need to know what the $3500 is covering. Is this just for the scar? Does this include her medical expenses, pain & suffering, or any other out of pocket expenses? In some states the settlement would include all these items and in other states those items would be paid through another source.
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> 2. As far as the scar itself, how noticeable is it? Does the doctor expect it to fade over time? Does it have an impact on her social life or self confidence? Is any future medical care recommended? What medical treatment has she received so far?
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> Expert: Claims Guy
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Answer
Based on what you described, I would say $3500 is a reasonable offer.  Now keep in mind this is very subjective and 5 people could give different opinions.  You are basically trying to estimate what a judge or jury might award if you were to go to trial.  The insurers base their values on experience with thousands of similar cases.

It is likely that the insurer established a range of value, with $3500 being on he low end.  If you negotiate, you might be able to get them to increase the offer one or two times.  Perhaps to about $4500- 5000.  I would suggest asking for $6000, then try to land around $5000.

Also, your daughter should be compensated for pain and suffering.  You mentioned chiro visits - how long did she have neck and back problems, and how many chiro visits?