Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 7/13/2011

Question
I am a 21 year old female from NE Ohio. I was recently a passenger in a car that slid on ice and struck a telephone pole going appx. 15-20 mph. Since I was wearing my seatbelt I received brush burn abrasions across my stomach and chest. The seatbelt ripped out my belly button ring as well. I had soft tissue injuries in my neck and am left with a scar the size of a jelly bean from the belly button ring getting pulled out. After the accident I went to the emergency room. I followed up with my family doctor who recommended X-rays and physical therapy for my neck and stated that the scabbing should heal up just fine. After going through 8 wks of physical therapy I was finally released with an almost normal range of motion. Went to a fourth appointment with family doctor who stated the scarring on my stomach and belly button could only be removed by seeing a plastic surgeon; which he recommended I set a consultation with after 6 months. My medical bill thus far have come to about $6500.00 with appx $600.00 in lost wages. It has been 18 weeks since the accident. What amount should I be fighting for on a pain and suffering settlement? What would you suggest I start at as a high amount and also on the low end? I was told to multiply my medical bills 1.5 times to up to 5 times. The estimated cost of repairing my scars are $2000-$3000.

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

Yes, 1.5 to 5 times the medical bills is accurate depending on the seriousness of the injuries. You should look at a website called www.collisionwizard.com . It has a claim calculator that can help you determine the value of your claim. It will also help you build a demand package based on the specifics of your case.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh