Compensation Inquiry
Good morning,
This past weekend, I was involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver, which also involved my two toddlers. The driver was arrested and is clearly at fault. I went to the emergency room for a checkup, but the EMS did not assess my children, so I’ll be taking them to the doctor today. I’m experiencing pain in my shoulder and leg, as well as occasional tingling in my fingers and toes. I also hit my head on the steering wheel and the back of the seat during the accident.
I’ve been advised to hire a lawyer, but I’m aware that they typically take a significant portion of any settlement. While I would prefer to settle rather than go through a lengthy legal process, I also want to ensure that I’m not offered a low settlement. On top of this, I’m missing work and had to purchase new car seats.
Could anyone share what a reasonable compensation range might be in this situation? Additionally, any tips on negotiating would be greatly appreciated, as this is my first car accident and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed. Thank you!
I’m really sorry to hear about your accident; that sounds incredibly stressful for you and your children. Given the circumstances, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how to proceed.
When it comes to compensation, a few factors typically come into play:
Medical Expenses: Keep all documentation related to your medical visits and any treatment you receive, especially for your shoulder, leg, and any head injury. This includes hospital bills, follow-up appointments, and even future medical costs if necessary.
Loss of Wages: Document your missed work days and any impact on your income. If you have to take time off for medical appointments, be sure to account for that as well.
Property Damage: You’ll want to account for the cost of your car seats and any damage to your vehicle.
Pain and Suffering: This is a subjective area, but you can seek compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
As for negotiating, here are a few tips:
Do Your Research: Look into similar cases in your area to get an idea of compensation ranges. This can help you establish a baseline for negotiations.
Document Everything: Keep a journal of your experiences, symptoms, and any changes in your life resulting from the accident. This can support your case for pain and suffering.
Consultation with a Lawyer: Even if you don’t decide to hire one, many personal injury lawyers offer free consultations. They can give you a clearer picture of what you might expect in terms of compensation and help you understand the legal process.
Start Higher: When negotiating, start with a higher amount than what you actually want. This gives you room to negotiate down while still arriving at a fair settlement.
Ultimately, your health and your children’s health are the most important factors. Make sure to prioritize follow-up medical care for yourself and your kids, and take the time you need to feel better. Good luck!