When you have car accident injuries, you have a lot of questions. Most people are completely unprepared for dealing with a car wreck. If you are the injured party, you need immediate help and then you need to sort out how to handle things like medical bills and time off of work. Here are answers to questions we often get when someone has car accident injuries:
What information do I need to prove fault for a car accident?
If you are in an accident and are physically able, always take photos of the accident scene. Of course, you need the name, phone number, driver’s license and insurance information of the other driver. But you may be too rattled at the time of the incident to make excellent notes, so photos will help. If you’re injured, always contact the police to make a report. The police will make notes of physical evidence and may also talk with witnesses. Ask for the name and badge number of the police officer so that you can get a copy of the report. You will need to prove liability and damages. A car accident attorney can help you determine your options.
What should I tell insurance companies about my car accident?
First of all, don’t talk with the insurance company that represents the other driver. The insurance company of the driver that hit you may try to negotiate a settlement before you’re ready. And once you agree on a settlement, you don’t have as many options. Talk with a lawyer who specializes in car accidents. The lawyer can take over answering insurance company questions. You may have expenses related to medical bills, car repair, time off of work, and general pain and suffering. But if you agree too soon to a settlement, then you lose the ability to receive all the compensation you’re due.
How much time do I have to claim car accident injuries?
You may not feel like you are injured when an accident happens. It often takes several days or even weeks for you to be aware of an injury. You actually have up to two years to make a claim. While most people don’t wait that long, you need to know that there is no rush. But, for a claim to be valid, you must tell any doctor that you see that you were in a car accident. The doctor’s office or hospital must have that information in the record. You may have medical bills that come due before your claim is settled. A car accident attorney can help with the timing and working with insurance companies.
What if the accident is my fault?
You may still be eligible for compensation if you think that the accident was partially your fault. It’s important to talk with a car accident attorney and not go it alone when dealing with insurance companies or other drivers. The most important thing to remember is that there is no need to rush into making a decision. Resist the pressure to make a quick settlement.
If you have other questions about car accident injuries, please contact our office.
