Auto Insurance Claims: Bike accident, lump sum settlement, bike accident

Question
I was on my bicycle riding in town when I was hit by a car turning left. The driver did not see me and it was completely his fault.
I have a fractured lower leg and have to use crutches for at least a month.
-I am a student who goes to a university and cannot climb the stairs to my dorm (there is no elevator either) Therefore I must commute to class everyday yet still pay a huge room and board fee.
-I cannot work at the grocery store I work at part time (about $150 a week)
My first question is: am I eligible for compensation from either or both of these problems?
How do I go about filing a claim? Must I go through legal action or will the driver's insurance (state farm) cover this?

Thank you very much.


Answer
Hi Bryan,

Yes. You are entitled to compensation for both of these issues. You should contact the state farm adjuster and inform them that you want to be compensated for lost wages as well as your dorm cost. Unfortunately, they will not pay these items as they are incurred. There will be a one time lump sum settlement once all of your treatment is completed that will include your medical bills, lost wages, dorm cost and pain & suffering. You should expect that the adjuster will try to low-ball you on all of these items. They do not care about you or your problems. There job is to try close the file and settle with you for as little as possible. If at any time you do not feel you are being treated fairly, you should consider hiring an attorney to represent you. It may not be a bad idea to go ahead and speak to a few attornies now so that you have one ready if it becomes necessary.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh