Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 5/17/2010

Question
Hi Richard,
In January 2010 while driving home from school while stopped at a red light I was stuck from behind. The car was totaled. My DR diagnosed Thoracic sprain and strain, sprain and strain of sacroiliac ligament, nonallopathic lesion of cervical region. I was advised to see a chiropractor which I do, twice a week. Then a little over a month later (Feb 16, 2010) I was hit again (same insurance company as the 1st accident) also a rear end accident. This car was also totaled. In May was sent by my chiropractor to see another chiropractor for a 2nd opinion on the 1st accident. He informed me that I needed to continue with therapy for at least 3 more months.
I have not hired an attorney. At this point I am hoping I can handle the settlement proceedings myself. Since there are 2 injuries  with the same insurance carrier should I hire an attorney? Am I making a mistake taking this on myself? Within the 1st week on the 1st accident the adjustor offered me $1000. I turned it down stating that settling right now when I haven't even had a chance to heal would not be a good decision.
How does the settlement process work when there are two accidents with the same carrier?
Thank you for taking the time to assist me.
Kelsey

Answer
Hi Kelsey,

You can count on the fact that the insurance company will try to find a way to use this against you. You can try to do it your self but if at any time you feel you are not being treated fairly you should seek an attorney. You should seek at least 2 to 3 times the total of your medial bills as a settlement.

To help you put your claim together you should visit a website called www.collisionwizard.com . It will help you develope a demand package and will even give you a high and low value of your claim based on your inputs.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh