Legal Question in Personal Injury in Ohio
slip and fall resulting in injury
A slip and fall at a gas station while getting out of the car results in multi. injuries. This was due to a large amount of ice in the bay that was not salted by staff who after the fall ran out to de-ice (clear day no snow or rain) separates both shoulders and injures her wrist. Subsequently has had to have 3 scope shoulder surgeries for repair and post op problems on the one shoulder.(the other shoulder and wrist have healed) has spent 9 of the last 18 months in physical therapy. Medical bills $60,000 billed/$26,000 allowed and paid by ins. Lost wages $45,000 + also, lost job because unable to return to work (36 yr old nurse) after the first surgery. Nearing the 18th month from injury. Adjuster wants to settle, medically has reached maximum improvement at about 75%. Would like to settle for appx. $250,000 is that reasonable amt.? Am I looking for too much $ or should I be looking for representation because the case it worth more? There really is no $ amount that can bring back everything I went through over the last 18 months. I do realize the 2 yr limitation as well.
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: slip and fall resulting in injury
I think you would a fool to settle with the insurance adjuster without consulting an attorney. Feel free to call my office.
Re: slip and fall resulting in injury
It's difficult to say whether the insurance company's offer is reasonable without knowing ALL of the facts.
For example, what will your future losses be, in terms of loss of income, loss of enjoyment of life, etc? I would at least talk to a lawyer if I were you. Where are you located?
Re: slip and fall resulting in injury
A slip and fall is usually a difficult case-especially in Ohio. If the insurance adjustor is willing to pay you something, that is a good sign. If they are considering paying even the medical bills, they must be acknowledging some responsibility.
You have used the words �maximum medical improvement.� Those words are usually associated with a worker�s compensation claim. Were you on the job at the time of this injury?
Your question says �would like to settle for appx $250,000.00.� Who would like to settle for 250,000.00? You or the insurance adjustor?
The actually value of a claim is based on a number of factors that are unique to each case. Given the nature of your injuries, it may not be near enough-but more information is needed before an accurate evaluation can be made. You need to talk directly to an experienced attorney before you agree to anything. Most attorneys who handle these injury claims are happy to talk to you for free. If you do decide to have an attorney represent you, the fee is usually based on the result.
I have been handling injury claims for almost 34 years. If you want to call, I will be happy to talk to you and answer any questions without any charge or obligation. The call is strictly confidential.
Your really need to take advantage of some free legal advice in this important decision.
Good Luck
DH Davies