Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 2/15/2011

Question
Hi,
I have 6 months left till I reach the statue of limitation for may auto wreck. Im not sure what amount to ask. My injures are as fallows.
bilateral shoulder impingement resulting in frozen shoulder syndrome to left shoulder,aggravated lower back injury.I suffered migraine headaches for months still have pain and stiffness in my shoulders and trouble sleeping due to discomfort. I missed out on my sons first hunting trip which should have been a family hunt but do to my shoulder injury I had to turn my hunt tag in and not hunt. I have missed out on several family activities due to pain. My bills are as followed

Hospital   $3,200
chiropractor $ 3,500
Pt                 $ 16,000
MRIs             $4,000
Doctors         $4,400
meds            $ 100
total            $31,200

Thanks

Answer
Hi Shelly,

This is not a forum in which I can give specific advice without actually revewing all of your medical records. I can tell you that a good starting point is 3 time the total of your medical bills. The insurance company will negotiate very hard. They may try to discount much of our medical treatment as being unnecessary. If they do then you need to seek the advice of an attorney, especially considering the amiunt of your medical expenses. An attorney will be able to help you the most.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh