I’m getting ready to write a settlement demand letter to Geico for a rear-end collision I was involved in. The other driver admitted fault, and Geico accepted responsibility too. He claimed he was distracted by someone honking and tailgating him, but he had plenty of space to stop. I suspect he might have been on his phone, but I can’t prove it. He was driving a work van when it happened. My car was totaled with $13,500 in damages.
Geico declared my car a total loss and paid out their estimate of its value, which was also around $13,500. I didn’t go to the ambulance, but my wife took me to urgent care. They did an X-ray and diagnosed me with a “mild” slipped disc and whiplash.
The next day, I saw my primary doctor, who prescribed physical therapy. I did PT for about four months. My insurance is handling my PIP (personal injury protection) and getting all the bills paid by Geico, I believe. I’ve also had some lingering pain, and once had to go to urgent care for a shot of toredal.
My question is: Can I still include medical bills in my demand, even though my insurance is covering them?
Also, what’s a reasonable amount to ask for? I was thinking of starting high, like $10k or $15k. What are some important things to include in my demand letter?
hi buddy this would guide you to your query give an estimate for Medical Bills and Repairs (if applicable)For your records, preserve a copy of the demand letter.
To make sure you have proof of delivery, send the letter by certified mail with a return receipt requested.
Be ready to haggle over the settlement sum.
Have you sent them your medical bills and records? That’s a good first step instead of demanding anything right away. Additionally, depending on your state, your insurance carrier might be asking them to reimburse your medical expenses. Without knowing the specifics of your treatment and injuries, it’s difficult to suggest an appropriate amount to ask for.
I’m in the process of collecting everything and will be sending them to the insurance company shortly.
hi victims,due to the accident, I sustained the following injuries: [List of your injuries]. I have attached medical records and bills that document the extent of my injuries and the medical treatment I received.
Your claim doesn’t justify a five-figure settlement. Considering it was a soft tissue injury that resolved in four months without any significant emergency care, I’d estimate around $5,000 for pain and suffering, plus reimbursement to your insurance carrier for what they paid for PIP. It’s important not to double-dip on medical expenses; since PIP covered them, your insurance company is entitled to subrogation rights, meaning you can’t also claim those same expenses.
In your demand letter, if you want to argue for more compensation for pain and suffering, you should explain how the injuries and recovery have affected your daily life.