$109K Settlement In Motorcycle Crash After Initial Offer of $10K
Our client, Jim, was driving his motorcycle on Delor Street in St. Louis when another driver suddenly and
unexpectedly pulled out of an alleyway, directly into Jim’s lane of travel. He had no time to react and was forced
to slide his motorcycle on the ground to try to avoid a collision. He ultimately ended up under the van, with
road-rash to the right side of his body and a torn meniscus in his right knee.
Jim had to have surgery on his right knee to repair the torn cartilage. Fortunately, the surgery went well
and he had a good recovery after physical therapy.
Initially, Jim tried working with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to settle his case without hiring a
lawyer. The insurer paid for some of his medical treatment and told him to send them the medical bills as
they were incurred.
The insurance company seemed cooperative and helpful at first, but when it came time to discuss settlement
amount, they only offered Jim $10K to fully settle his claim. This was shocking to Jim, given his serious
injuries and medical damages.
Fortunately, Jim came to us with his case. Attorney Michael
Sheldon filed a lawsuit for him, completed written discovery and depositions, and mediated the case
late last year.
While the mediation did not directly result in settlement, it was a great way for Jim to present his case to
a neutral mediator with the other side at the table.
A couple months after the mediation, the insurance company agreed to settle the case for nearly the same amount of
Jim’s last settlement demand at mediation – $110K. With the medical bills the insurance company had already paid,
Jim’s total settlement value was over $112K.
This case is yet another example of why it is crucial to consult with a lawyer about your personal injury case. Insurance companies are in the
business to make money, and they constantly try to settle claims for much less than they are worth.
We are glad we could help Jim stand up to the insurance company and get this great settlement!
