If you are reading this you have probably been involved in an auto accident with injuries. If the other driver was at fault, that driver’s insurance company will be interested in a quick settlement and will likely contact you. It is not a good idea to sign any agreement or legal document without consulting an attorney.
Where there is injury there is a right to compensation. This is a simple concept but getting the compensation you are entitled to can be complicated and is best handled by an attorney experience in this area. You may be entitled to compensation for past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of earnings, household help, loss of enjoyment of life, etc. Your car will have to be repaired or replaced and you are entitled to compensation for loss of use while you are without transportation. .
If you have uninsured motorist coverage on your own policy, your own insurance will be available for you to claim compensation as described above. There is no penalty for using your own policy where the other driver is uninsured or underinsured (not having enough coverage to cover your claim). If you have multiple cars on your policy, you may be able to add the coverage or “stack” to increase your potential coverage.
If you have med-pay coverage in your auto policy or health insurance, it is a good idea to use that coverage for your medical treatment. The liability insurer of the driver who was at fault is not required to pay medical bills as they are incurred.
Although the responsible driver or his insurance carrier is obligated to pay compensation, it may require a court judgment to bring this about. Liability (fault) is usually challenged as is the amount of compensation. The claim will have to be painstakingly and thoroughly documented and presented with a settlement demand. Even then it may be necessary to file a lawsuit to bring about settlement. Thereafter most claims settle without a trial.
It is unusual for an auto injury client to want to pay attorney’s fees by the hour; most want to pay a percentage out of the final settlement or court judgment. This is usually available for good-faith injury claims.
Call anytime. We will be happy to discuss your claim with you, even if your injuries are not severe. It is a good idea to call soon after the accident for advice concerning proper documentation, etc.
Make the call 984-1950.