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Auto Insurance Claims/Pedestrian Hit by Car

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Expert: - 1/17/2009


Question
Hello,

I was hit by a car while walking during my lunch break on 9/5/08.  Other party left scene however was caught by 2 witnesses.  Police report has other person 100% at fault.  She violated a vehicle code however no hit and run.  We both work at the same hospital.

Most of my medical bills are being covered under worker's comp.  I suffered a strained MCL, meniscus and cartilage damage.  I also have been diagnosed by with PTSD due to this accident.  My medical bills are near $11,000 and loss wages are about $18,000.  I have been receiving temporary disability for this accident.  I am being sent to the orthopedic surgeon to repair my cartilage and assume medical bills will go up.

I was only on the job 6 weeks prior to accident and have to start my probation and training process over.  I have suffered relationship and financial problems because of accident and PTSD.

Does temporary disability impact lost wages?  Any idea the value of my claim?  Any advice will be helpful.

Thanks

Answer
The value of your claim will not be reduced by any other payments you receive from other sources, unless those sources file a lien against your settlement.  If they do, then you will need to reimburse them out of your claim settlement.  Whether they can file a lien depends on your state law and the specific coverage you have.  You will know if they file a lien because they will send you a letter explaining this.

I can't estimate the value of your claim because it is too soon.  You are still receiving medical treatement.  You should wait until you have completed medical care.

Auto Insurance Claims

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Claims Guy

Expertise

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer......I can answer questions related to any aspect of Automobile insurance claims and coverages. I can provide an inside look at how insurers operate. I always treat my customers fairly and want to help make sure you are treated fairly. However, please keep in mind that being treated fairly according to the law does not guarantee that you will get what you want. I can also answer some questions regarding Homeowner's and other types of insurance claims. I have handled all types of auto insurance claims and coverages. I am NOT an automotive repair expert but can give advice re how insurers handle complex repair issues. Please keep in mind that every state has its own set of laws pertaining to rules of the road, liability, and insurance. No one is an expert on every state. I am most familiar with laws in Maryland, DC, West Virginia, and Virginia, but will attempt to answer questions for other states. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Experience

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Organizations
CPCU Society. Adjusters license in multiple states. International Association of Specal Investigators

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Finance and have completed the AIC and CPCU designations.

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