Auto Insurance Claims: if/when to involve a lawyer in auto insurance claim, time registration fee, auto insurance claim

Question
Hi Richard,
I was a pedestrian hit by a car and have a fractured tibia. Driver accepted responsibility in the police report and the insurance company rep told me on the phone they accept responsibility. This happened 3 weeks ago and i am trying to work and manage my daily life, certainly it is a readjustment. I am not happy with the care I am receiving in my HMO (i am myself a family doctor). Is it reasonable to get a 2nd opinion on my treatment? How would getting a lawyer now change how i manage my daily life now? Should i get a lawyer at all?

Answer
Hi Jina,

Hiring an attorney will not change the type of care and treatment  you receive from your HMO.

Once all medical treatment is completed and you are released from a doctors care, you will need to assemble a "Demand package". This will outline all medical care received, costs, medical notes, diagmosis & prognosis including any permant partial imparement.

For help in organizing all of this you should visit www.collisionwizard.com . This is a program produced by the Better Business Bureau to assist in these situations. The is a one time registration fee of only $19.99 but it will provide you with a wealth of information and assistance. If you find that the process in overwhelming or the insurance company is not treating you fairly you can always hire an attorney.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh