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Auto Insurance Claims/pain and suffering

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Expert: - 7/6/2010


Question
I was in an accident last month.  Another car ran a yield sign and hit me and totaled my car.  I was paid a fair amount for my car.  I missed a week and a 1/2 of work and made two trips to the hospital for soft tissue injury of my back.  My total medical bills are $1,200.00.  The adjuster offered me $500 pain and suffering today, which I find is totally unacceptable.  What do you think?

Answer
Based on what you have told me, I would estimate the value of your claims as medical bills, plus lost wages, plus about $1000.  This is assuming that you have recovered and have no expected future medical care.  This is a negotiation and the adjuster started low.  Don't take it personally - this will not help resolve your case.  Be polite and courteous but firm.  When you call, be prepared to explain why your case is worth more.  You might need to get a couple more offers out of the adjuster.  You do not want this to become personal and provide the adjuster a reason to make this hard on you.

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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