As someone who works in the legal field (though I work mostly in criminal law), I can tell you getting a lawyer can make all the difference in the world. Many insurance companies won't even take you seriously until you hire counsel. Personally, 3k for a lifetime of pain is laughable. At least go see somone, and see if they work on contingency if funds are an issue.

Lawyer up. You have an advantage in this case, as you already have extensive medical records detailing what kind of shape you were in before the accident, so it will be very hard for them to argue "pre-existing conditions". Don't settle for a one-time payment, make sure that the settlement includes future expenses, and if you have to go to trial to get what you deserve, don't let them waive jury.

Get a lawyer now.

I won't go into the details but you need one...

Make sure it'* not some fool who advertises on TV. Get some recomendations from people you know, or look in the yellow pages. Not only will a lawyer make a difference but a good like will make a big difference. And once this starts... plan to wait awhile for a settlement.

I agree - go see a lawyer. We cannot go to court here in Manitoba Canada; it'* all no-fault insurance.

Even 15k is not enough - as Mr. Chinski says - you do not know farther down the road what you are going to experience (course that is true for everyone come to think of it) but in this case it is not about just today...

By the way I do empathize with your plight.