Legal Question in Personal Injury in Georgia
Claim settlement
My neighbor's truck crashed into our house our bedroom-my husband was 2 feet from possible death. He was injured-minorly and taken to the hospital. He was released with RX's and sent home to recuperate. Myself I am having anxienty and really do not want to live in the house anymore. The medical bills are not significant (4,500.00)however, there was 15,000.00 damage to the house + replacement items of appproximately 3,000.00. The furniture damage was 400.00. My issue is how do I know what the claim is worth? I need to know what amount is a fair settlement amount-that being after the our insurance co has been reimbursed for the medical bills all repair bills, lost wages, replacement items, etc-I appriciate any input and help in this mattter.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Claim settlement
You should not attempt to negotiate a settlement of this kind of claim without an attorney. Unless you have some sophistication in this area, the insurance company will eat you alive. They have access to lots of attorneys. It is difficult to assess what is a reasonable demand in this kind of case, and there is no substitute for experience. Many attorneys, such as myself, consider such cases on contingent fee bases. I strongly urge you to retain an attorney to deal with the insurance company(ies).
Re: Claim settlement
You are clearly entitled to reimbursment for the damages you can document. As to your psychological problems, you need consult with an attorney as to how to maximize your recovery in this area.