Auto Insurance Claims: loss of wages, auto accident lost wages

Question
I was recently in an auto accident that was caused by the other driver.  I suffered an injury that left me out of work for several days and unable to return to my normal duty.  I have been using my sick time and paid time off to make up for the wages I am losing.  I am due to have a baby in 2 months and all the sick time and paid time off I have used was to cover my maternity leave.  The 3rd party insurer states they will not pay for lost wages until after I am released from my Dr.  How can I get them to start paying now for lost wages so I stop using my PTO and sick time?

Answer
Kara,
IMO, they don't have to make any payment on your injury and lost wages claim until you are ready to sign a release. And you should not sign a release until you are done with medical treatment, or you and your doctor can estimate what future treatments will be needed and agree on a settlement. Keep in mind that they owe for all your lost time from work with no deduction for sick time or paid time off. If they refuse to acknowledge this, get a lawyer.