*If* the perp is arrested and prosecuted, she will have little to no likelihood of recovering anything.  Criminals end up owing fines and prison costs, and often will also owe child support that they cannot pay while in prison, which state is first in line to collect, ahead of any personal injury judgements.   That said, I hope nothing ever happens to you that puts you in a financial bind.  The woman is trying to put her life back on track, and judgemental curmudgeons like you aren't helping.