I got a second degree burn from the seat belt due to a car accident. The isurance of the person who hit me is taking responsibi

Rosie, I agree with the others that there are a lot of variables to take into consideration in trying to determine the value of a claim such as yours. However, there are things that attorneys will often refer to to get a sense of the value range of a case. We commonly refer to these as "Jury Sheets." Basically, there are companies out there which provide a service of summarizing case verdicts and settlements. The cases are indexed and categorized in a number of ways. For example, it is common to search for the sort of injury involved. So, in your case, you would likely be able to find cases in which the injury was a 2nd degree burn. Obviously, it's not an exact science, but it might at least be helpful to give you a sense of the value of your pain and suffering claim. I would be happy to help you look into this if you would like to give me a call. 310-268-5555. Good luck! - Martin Weniz

It is really difficult to value a case without more info and before you know how long it will take to heal, if there will be a permanent scar, etc. You can settle your property damage claim to your car without settling your injury claim. You have 2 yrs to settle or sue assuming you were not involved in crash with a govt employee etc. You may want to give it soometime to see how you do and how it turns out. Sometimes scars can take a year to fully mature. Robert Kopelson

I agree with Mr. Kopelson. To properly evaluate a personal injury case it is best to have achieved an end result (completion of treatment) in situations such as yours. Scarring usually improves over time but can be permanent in which case you may need a medical opinion about that - and what future options such as plastic surgery might likely work. But to give an estimate based on what you have posted is simply not possible. So it is certainly best to see a local attorney to help you through this process. Good health and good luck!

Two lawyers have chimed in with good points. You should definitely retain an experienced local personal-injury attorney to help you resolve your case. You should not deal directly with the insurance company. They have professionals negotiating on their end, and you probably do not have their claims manual.

I agree with my colleagues. Anyone who guesses the value without more specifics is telling you something that they think you want to hear in order to get your case. One needs to see the records and bills as well as photographs of the injuries to give an approximate evaluation. Given the mechanism of the injury, I'm surprised your complaints are limited to a shoulder abrasion. Was the injury less than 72 hours ago? If so, I would not be surprised if you noticed additional issues arise since this post. Often hyper extension and hyper flexion injuries take a couple of days to manifest. I don't suggest you go running to collect on a claim until you first know the full extent of the injuries. Talk to a local attorney before you give out any statements to the insurance company. You can call us for a free consult at (949)309-0990 or you can find an attorney here on . Marc Lazarus www.russellandlazarus.com

I agree with the other attorneys who have comented on your post. Without all of the the information available, it is impossible to give you an accurate estimate of your damages. You The insurance adjuster is not your friend and does not have your best interest in mind. You should retain the services of an attorney who is experienced in handling personal injuty matters. There are many fine attorneys on . In the meantime, continue to treat for your injuries and follow your doctor's instructions.

Without knowing all the facts and circumstances of a particular case, it would be impossible to put a number on this. A personal injury lawyer in your city should be retained who can fight to get you the maximum possible compensation available.

It is good news the other insurance company is telling you they are going to take full responsibility of the accident. However, keep in mind they are not really on your side or your representation. I truly do not see how they can give even begin to give you an estimate of how much the accident will cost until the end of the case review. There is still time to consider how fast you heal and how smooth the remainder of the case goes. If you have have not talked to an attorney who would only be representing you, I strongly suggest you make a consultation appointment. Insurance companies are trained professionals to get the bill to the lowest amount as possible not to help cover all your needs from the accident.

Car insurance companies do not make money by "taking responsibility." They make money by collecting premiums and not paying out for casualties. When ins are greater than outs there are happy little stockholders and executives. Insurance companies pay more when they feel they have to... in other words, they calculate their exposure... and when that exposure involves a claimant with an attorney versus one without, the calculations are higher for the claimant with an attorney. Thus, if a person were trying to figure out how much he or she will get in compensation, two estimates will result... one with counsel and one without. The with should be greater. As for exact numbers, many factors come into play... age of claimant, sex of claimant, marital status of claimant, previous activities and sports, enjoyment of life, quality of life, difficulty with ADL's (activities of daily living), etc. A experienced personal injury attorney will seek compensation based on all factors. - Paul Paul J. Molinaro, M.D., J.D. Attorney at Law, Physician, Broker Fransen&Molinaro;, LLP 980 Montecito Drive, Suite 206 Corona, CA 92879 (951)520-9684 www.fransenandmolinaro.com / www.888MDJDLAW.com "When you need a lawyer, call the Doctor... Call Paul J. Molinaro, M.D., J.D... Call (888)MDJDLAW." ** This post and all others I make on Internet are for informational purposes only. None of the information or materials I post are legal advice. Nothing I post as comments, answers, or other communications should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing of this information does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. While I try to be accurate, I do not guarantee accuracy.

Rosie, I agree with all the other posts. Just remember to take photos of your injuries (and not only close ups.) Visible injuries, such as bruises or burns, often fade quickly. If you can't capture the photos, ask a family member or friend to help. Regards, Robert

It would be best to wait and see about the scarring and how well you heal before you begin to determine the value of your case. The number one concern should be your health so make sure you continue to follow up with your doctor.

You will need to wait until you know what the future holds as to the scarring to determine the value of your case. If you retain a personal injury attorney they will gather your medical records, police report, medical bills, obtain any photos of the accident,damage to your vehicle, and your injuries. During the healing process you need to document your burn as it changes by taking close up photos. Take daily photos, or at least every other day. The value of your pain and suffering damages both past and future will depend, in my opinion, on where the burn occurred and the placement of any lasting scarring. If you have considerable scarring the value would likely go up, but the most important thing you can do is retain a personal injury attorney who deals with the insurance companies day in and day out. Jesse B. Chrisp, Esq. www.Chrisplaw.com