What can I expect them to offer me? Is $8000 reasonable, even without hiring an attorney?
No one can say what any injury is worth.
I can tell you that victims who hire an attorney to fend off the insurance company average between 3 to 5 times more in settlements.
So, let's say they were to offer you $10,000 without a lawyer.
You hire a lawyer and let's say, using the statistical data that you get the lower side, $30,000.
The lawyer gets between 33-40% of the award as his or her fee.
Let's say he takes 40% of $30,000, that leaves you with $28,000.
I suggest you do nothing until you have consulted an attorney.
The lawyer works to get you more, because he gets more.
The only loser is the insurance company.