This is what I did - no lawyer, worked with the adjuster. They offered a small amount for pain & suffering, and I got them to move up just a little on that, but I had minimal lasting damage just a small scar on my ankle, so that's OK.

I really didn't want the bitterness of a law suit in my life, and the time I would have had to spend dealing with it. I've been told I could have netted a pretty big sum if I had a lawyer, but if I had it to do all over again I would do exactly what I did.

I was reimbursed for all medical expenses (which were pretty large, as it included a bunch of head CT scans and a helicopter evac), a new bike, all my clothes that were ruined/cut off me, 4 new panniers (damaged in the crash), airline tickets home (I was on tour and had to end the tour b/c I was injured). I was awarded $3000 pain & suffering. There weren't any lost wages b/c I was between contracts, so I didn't miss any work.

The woman who hit me called me a week after the accident to ask how I was doing and say how sorry she was. I thought that was nice, especially since it wasn't settled with the insurance yet. She was cited for a minor driving violation, not sure what it was. She didn't see me in a two-way turn lane and hit me - broad daylight.

HOWEVER - I would advise you to get your shoulder looked at - joint injuries can come back to haunt you, so it's important to get treatment soon as well as document that the injury is a result of the accident - if you need more extensive treatment later, the insurance company should reimburse your expenses. Don't sign off the medical portion of the claim until you are 100% healed. You can complete the property portion (bike) separately from the medical.

Good luck to you, I applaud your attitude and I'm glad you aren't too badly hurt.