AboutRichard Hixenbaugh Expertise Auto insurance claims procedure, auto coverage, liability issues, auto damage questions, how to deal with the insurance company, loss of use and diminished value.
Experience I have been involved in the insurance industry for over 20 years. I have experience in underwriting, sales, claims adjusting, auto damage estimating, auto value appraising and diminished value appraising. I have testified as an expert witness over 10 times.
Education/Credentials Completed all required courses for the Florida Property-Casualty agents license and the Florida claims adjusters license. I have attended various courses on auto damage estmating, vehicle appraising and am ASE certified in collision damage analysis.
Past/Present clients My company has done work for consumers nationwide.
Question My mother was invloved in a hit and run accident with a drunk driver, he was charged, is insured in New York State, as is my mother. She had medical bills of about $6000, as she suffered a fractured sternum and 2nd degree burns to her arm, hospitalized for 3 days. She was doing childcare, earning $300/wk, the doctor disabled her for 4 months. Total loss of income was $4800.00. Auto damage was $9000. Her sternum fracture will take a full 6 months to heal, and may not heal correctly, due to the fact that she is a senior. What can she expect as an award for pain and suffering ? What would be a reasonable offer to accept ? Insurance adjuster is going to be making an offer this week. This accident occured in New York state as well. Thank You.
Answer Hi Greg,
Generally, injury settlements will range from 3 to 10 times the amount of the medical bills, plus the lost wages. Your mothers actual settlement will be based on the extent of injuries, the length and cost of treatment and the prognosis for recovery. I have not seen the entire medical record so it is hard to be specific but based on what you have told me I would think that any settlement should fall in the range of $40,000.00 to $60,000.00. You should be prepared for the insurance company to initially make an offer that is much less. The insurance company has no interest in providing proper compensation, on in paying enough to make you go away. If you do not feel the offer they make is reasonable, you should stop any conversation with the insurance company and seek the advice of an attorney in your moms area.
