My elderly client was struck in a cross walk while crossing the street with a walk sign.  She went to the emergency room, had two operations, and about $25,000.00 in medical expenses.  She was a housewife with no lost wages, so we emphasized her lessened quality of life.

Her orthopaedic doctor gave her a 25% permanent disability rating, but to give it more credibity we sent her for a second opinion to a doctor who is frequently used by the insurance companies.  He also gave her a similar rating.  The case then settled for policy limits - $200,000.00!

Lesson:  Use the insurance company doctors to bolster your damage claims before the insurance company contacts them for an "independent medical examination".