The $10k might be the max for personal injury protection (PIP). The $1k is probably for bodily injury.
You should get a lawyer. They take 1/3 of the settlement, but you’ll probably get more overall with their help.
I wouldn’t take that offer until you get the ER bill. The first offer is rarely the best. Between the ER bill, lost wages, bike, and helmet, you’re probably looking at more than $10k and $1k cash.
@charles The bike and helmet should be part of the property damage claim, not the injury claim.
@RetroRanger True, but it’s still property damage that needs to be covered.
@charles Right, but it’s separate from the injury claim.
@charles I hadn’t even thought of including the bike and helmet. Thanks for that!
@MaryJane I was hit while riding my electric scooter, and they asked me for a receipt for it to add to my claim. I also had to get a statement from my boss showing the time I missed due to appointments and pain. Include everything, even the cost of your ambulance ride and X-rays.
Don’t sign anything yet. That offer is way too low.
No, I don’t think that’s a fair offer. There could be long-term issues. I’m glad your husband is doing okay though.
When did the accident happen? I don’t think you should settle until you know all the bills. Allstate once offered me less than my medical bills after I got rear-ended. They dragged it out for three years before paying.
@PixelPioneer1 It happened less than a week ago. They want us to sign quickly, probably so they don’t have to pay for anything that might come up later. We’re going to ask for more time.
@MaryJane Good idea, but be ready for them to delay it. Insurance companies try to wait as long as possible before paying. It’s how they work.
@PixelPioneer1 That’s not true. Insurance companies want to close claims as fast as they can. If it took three years, there was more going on than just waiting on an ER bill.
@Jamesrue Good point, thanks. He still loves biking but is pretty nervous to get back on.
You should definitely hire a lawyer.
@oliviamartin People always say that, but for smaller claims, a lawyer won’t add much value. They’ll just take 30% of the settlement.
@Anderson Yeah, it’s like saying ‘just Google it.’
@Anderson But if a lawyer gets you $10k instead of $1k, wouldn’t you rather pay the lawyer’s 30% and still get more in the end?
@oliviamartin You’re not getting $10k for minor injuries with or without a lawyer. It depends on the situation.