Expert: Doctor Settlement - 6/7/2007

Question
Hi, I am writing on behalf of a friend who I am worried about. He was involved in an accident (he rear-ended someone) about a month ago, when he contacted his insurance company, he realized that his policy had lapsed by about a week due to his parents not sending him his mail.  He has now received a few different letters from the other party's insurance company, stating different total amounts due (I am working with limited information, sorry.)He has tried to call this company, but they have not returned his calls.  Do you recommend that he get an attorney in this situation?  I know that I would, but he does not know what to do, as money is tight for him. Can you offer a suggestion for a situation like this?  Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Joy

Answer
Dear Joy,

I would NEVER settle a claim myself without the advice of an attorney.  Here is why.  He may be happy to agree to pay $3,500 for the car damage, and think that he is done.

But even at 10 MPH the impact of a rear-ender can cause soft tissue injuries.  Those might not even show up for three weeks.  So he is subject to a claim for personal injury that could surface much later.

My point in seeing an attorney would be to assess the amount of damages and if it is possible, enter into an agreement to pay over time, and also get a release from the other driver for any and all personal injuries, known and unknown.

There is a lawyer referral service in most states.  You can get in touch with them via your state bar association http://www.settlementcentral.com/links.php or your county bar association.

These lawyers agree to take $40 an hour or so as a service to the public, and that would be the perfect match-up for your friend.

Best wishes,

Dr. Settlement, J.D. (Juris Doctor)
www.SettlementCentral.Com