Expert: Bennie719 - 1/2/2008

Question
Hello,
 I was struck by an automobile going the other direction, crossing my lane, turning into a suburb on my side of the street.  I was struck on my left side, went on the hood and over the right side of the vehicle.  I have been to the doctor, and been doing physical therapy on my knee.  I have been able to walk fine, but strenuous activity (bike riding, climbing steps), my knee is not as strong.  I have no idea what the effects will be later on in my life.  Police were there etc…
MY QUESTION is, what would be the normal compensation for this be?  I have had additional injuries, bruised and miss aligned tail bone, hand and fingers sprains, etc.. from this accident.
Thank you.


Answer
************************** FOLLOW UP *********************
Hi William,
Yes, the total demand of 3.2 includes pain and suffering.
Bennie


Hi William,
I'm sorry to learn of your injury and do wish you a full recovery.
All states have a statue of limitations within which you must either settle the claim or file a lawsuit for an extension of time.
If your accident happened in Tennessee or Kentucky, the statue is one year.  Most other states allow two years, and a few three or more.
Assuming that you fully recover from these injuries without a Doctor having to write a long narative citing proof that there will be future long term problems and possible surgery, then the value of your claim is a factor times your total economic losses.  This would be something that you could easily handle without the need of an attorney.
Build a file containing all of your 'specials' (economic losses).  This includes Ambulance, ER Visit, all tests at the hospital, each doctor visit and charge, each physical therapy visit and charge, all prescription drugs and round trip mileage for every trip that you make to receive treatment at $0.43 per mile plus any documented wage losses.
Multiply this total by 3.2 and submit a demand to the adverse company to settle for that amount, along with copies of all your 'specials'.  Their initial offer will be less than your demand, but through the process of negotiation, you should be able to compromise on a settlement of between 2.5 - 2.75 times your specials.  This would be considered a fair settlement if there are no long term permenant injuries.
I hope this has been of help.
Your feedback by rating my answer will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Bennie