Settlement for Getting Punched in the Nose?

by Alina
(Los Angeles, CA)

I am a female and got punched in the face by a male. He broke my nose and was arrested. The court found him guilty. He has a felony with one strike already on his file.

A few days ago the perpetrator's homeowners insurance called me and wants to settle the case by paying. I have two questions:

1. Why is his homeowners insurance involved in this case, the incident was not in his home and I do not even know the guy personally?

2. How much is normally asked for, for such an incident?

Thanks.

Disclaimer: Information provided in your response is not formal legal advice, it is generic legal information and is based on the very limited information given in your question. You should always get a formal case evaluation from a licensed attorney.

ANSWER for "Settlement for Getting Punched in the Nose?":

Alina (Los Angeles, CA):

Be happy someone is looking to reimburse you for your injuries and resultant medical and related costs. Although the defendant has been found guilty there isn't any law requiring any type of insurance to pay you.

You would be best served by accepting the homeowner's offer. Before accepting an amount you should consider the following in your computation of the amount to settle for...

Add all of your medical bills. Add to that amount your out of pocket expense such as prescription and non prescription medications. Then take the amount of your lost wages. With those numbers, add an amount of money you believe fair for the pain and suffering your endured.

Take a hard look at those numbers. Because out of pocket expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering can be relatively subjective and intangible amounts, the way personal injury settlement amounts are reached is by taking your medical bills and multiplying them by 3x, 4x, 5x or more. That amount will represent the settlement amount you should ask for. From there, negotiate an amount you feel is fair.

Since laws change frequently and across jurisdictions you should get a personalized case evaluation from an attorney licensed in your state (if you haven't already). Find an experienced local attorney to give you a FREE personalized case review here.


Best of luck,

Law Guy


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