Not Satisfied with My Car Accident Settlement
I recently got into a car accident in Texas where my front end was hit, and the other vehicle was totaled. It was the other driver’s fault—he provided me with an expired insurance card and essentially had no coverage. I have an attorney, but I just received a settlement check for only $2,500 from GEICO. That amount feels inadequate considering my knee pain, whiplash, and a herniated disk in my neck. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get X-rays or MRIs due to limited coverage on my insurance, but I have been visiting a chiropractor.
I also had to file a claim with my own insurance since the other driver wasn’t insured. It’s puzzling how the rookie officers failed to check for proper insurance and didn’t issue a ticket.
What are my options? Am I stuck with this settlement just because he lacked insurance? The amount doesn’t even cover the value of my vehicle, let alone my lost wages, pain and suffering, and the overall hassle this situation has caused.
I plan to discuss this with my lawyer in the morning, but I’d appreciate any advice on what steps I can take next.
I’m really sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds incredibly frustrating and painful, especially considering your injuries and the outcome of the accident. Here are a few options you might consider discussing with your attorney:
Review Medical Evidence: Even though you weren’t able to get X-rays or MRIs, any documentation from your chiropractor or other healthcare providers could help substantiate your injuries. Make sure to gather and present all medical records related to your pain, treatments, and any continuing issues.
Negotiate with GEICO: Your attorney may be able to negotiate with GEICO for a higher settlement based on your injuries and the impact on your life. It’s not uncommon for initial offers to be low, and it’s worth making a case for a more adequate amount.
Assess Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If you have underinsured motorist coverage through your own policy, you might be eligible for additional compensation beyond what GEICO offered.
Document Your Losses: Make sure you keep a detailed record of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, any lost wages, and other costs associated with the accident and your recovery. This information will be vital in making your case for a higher settlement.
Explore Future Medical Needs: If your injuries are likely to require ongoing treatment or impact your future earning potential, discuss these aspects with your attorney to ensure they are considered in your settlement discussions.
Consider Legal Action: If negotiation doesn’t result in a satisfactory settlement, your attorney might recommend pursuing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for further compensation. This is especially relevant if you have a strong case and evidence of negligence.
Stay in Communication: Keep the lines of communication open with your attorney. They can provide you with specific legal advice tailored to your situation and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Remember, it’s important to advocate for yourself and ensure that you receive compensation that reflects your injuries and the inconvenience you’ve experienced. Good luck, and I hope you find a resolution that gives you the support you need!