I was rear-ended 2 yrs ago and my vehicle was totaled by my insurance company. The other driver also had the same insurance company which initially found us both equally at fault even though the other driver was sited and received a ticket for following too close.
A pre arbitration meeting with my attorney, defense attorney and the arbitrator netted me an offer to settle of $15,000. My medical expenses are $9,000 and although my attorney is entitled to one third of settlement, he agreed to split balance remaining after medical expenses if I chose to accept offer.
I did not accept the arbitrators recommendation of $15,000 and proceeded with the arbitration hearing. During the hearing, the defendant admitted that she never saw me and was unaware I was on the road until her vehicle struck my vehicle. A week later, the arbitrator suggested that the case be settled for $29,000.
I don't feel that the amount being suggested is enough considering that the quality of my life has been affected. I still suffer from back pain. A year after my treatment with a back and neck specialist my back locked up and I had to resume treatment for a few weeks. I am also limited in the activities that I can (and feel comfortable) doing. I have 2 young children ages 3 and 11. I'm afraid that if I settle for the offer I may be loosing out on future medical expenses in addition to being compensated for loss/change to the quality of my life. Please advise?
A pre arbitration meeting with my attorney, defense attorney and the arbitrator netted me an offer to settle of $15,000. My medical expenses are $9,000 and although my attorney is entitled to one third of settlement, he agreed to split balance remaining after medical expenses if I chose to accept offer.
I did not accept the arbitrators recommendation of $15,000 and proceeded with the arbitration hearing. During the hearing, the defendant admitted that she never saw me and was unaware I was on the road until her vehicle struck my vehicle. A week later, the arbitrator suggested that the case be settled for $29,000.
I don't feel that the amount being suggested is enough considering that the quality of my life has been affected. I still suffer from back pain. A year after my treatment with a back and neck specialist my back locked up and I had to resume treatment for a few weeks. I am also limited in the activities that I can (and feel comfortable) doing. I have 2 young children ages 3 and 11. I'm afraid that if I settle for the offer I may be loosing out on future medical expenses in addition to being compensated for loss/change to the quality of my life. Please advise?