This is about my auto accident a few month ago. If you don't know about it here is the thread.
https://www.fordpinto.com/general-pinto-talk/rear-ended-no-boom/msg181190/#msg181190First the update. After 5 weeks sitting at the body shop work has started. They pulled the frame and the door gaps are restored.
This is about the medical settlement. After the accident I had back pain at a level 2. To be on the safe side I had an MRI. It showed no accident damage but did reveal some arthritis of the spine. I believed my pain would resolve it’s self and I would be back to normal.
A month latter the insurance company called and offered $750 for pain and suffering. I was surprised at this and admitted to the adjuster, I wasn’t expecting anything for a few bumps and bruises. The agent said, “Just sign the paperwork I send, and the money is yours.”
When the paper arrived, I read the fine print. Signing the paper would absolve Prudential of all future liability. I think the money was a distraction from the true goal, liability release. I decided not to sign.
Sometime later the agent called requesting my signature. I told her I felt the letter was deceptive and would not sign yet. She said I had to sign; she could not pay my medical bills with no signature. I told her I did not care. Then she said that if they don’t pay, I personally will go into collection and my credit rating will suffer. This made me mad. I will not respond to threats.
It is good I did not sign. I did not recover. I did not realize I am not young anymore. I am not going to recover. My pain level is still a 2. For the sake of brevity, I am leaving some conversations out.
I sent an email saying I did not appreciate the deception or threats and would not sign off until I receive an apology. The apology was, “We are sorry you misunderstood us” It’s a copout, but the best I am going to get. Next she asked what I needed to resolve this.
I have a permanent injury. This pain could be from the accident or perhaps the arthritis. I had no pain before, so I figure the accident set off a problem. It is possible I could have had years of health if not for what happened, maybe not.
I said permanent injuries receive big payouts. Because arthritis is a factor and the accident is a factor, I want a small settlement of $15,000. I would like a few things to make my life more comfortable.
They upped their offer to $1200. That is where it stands. If I live to age 80, this equals 20 cents per day.
I know I handled this poorly with the first phone call. I have never been in this situation before. I had no clue.
I am open to all suggestions.
Thank you
Bill