QUESTION
What is a fair settlement amount?
Asked on Jan 09th, 2013 on Personal Injury - Massachusetts
More details to this question:
i fell at work and got 2 fractures of my right ankle, surgery done but still cant walk or stand for an hour, a tear on my shoulder got 2 shots but still painful, and a bulge on my lower back which make it difficult to work or sleep, or lift, therapy does not seem to help. and now insurance wants to settle, urgently need estimate to accept lawyer offered.
1 ANSWER
Stephen P. Kelly
There are numerous factors beyond the injury itself that go in to determining a fair settlement amount. Insurance companies will always try to settle at the smallest amount possible. People unrepresented by counsel are generally taken advantage of in this situation. You would be wise to retain an attorney who will be able to evaluate your case and negotiate with the insurance company. Virtually all personal injury and workman's comp attorneys take cases on a contingency basis. That means you don't pay attorney fees unless there is a recovery and the fees are based on a percentage of the award or settlement amount. Protect yourself. Do not settle with the insurance company until you've spoken to an attorney.
Answered on Jan 10th, 2013 at 11:03 PM