Knowledge is the first step. Below, we provide straightforward answers to your most common questions. If your specific question isn’t answered here, put our experience to work for you by scheduling a consultation.
Not to worry, our initial consultation is free. If we decide to take your case, we can work on a contingency basis. That means you pay no attorney fees unless we win, although court costs and expenses may apply, but are advanced on your behalf.
The insurance companies want to pay out as little as possible. They may even spin the facts and try to make it look like you were at fault. A personal injury lawyer can help you through the process.
You have 14 days to see a doctor for medical care or lose some auto coverage related benefits. That is the first step, and we recommend you do this even if you don’t feel pain yet since some injuries result in delayed pain. Be sure to notify the doctor that you were in an accident so they may document everything correctly.
Even if you share fault, you may still be entitled to recovery, provided you are not more than 50% responsible. Again, the insurance company wants to pay out as little as possible, so having an attorney representing you to interpret liability to the carrier is your strongest way forward.
We do not recommend giving a recorded statement to either your insurance company or the other party’s insurance company until you have consulted with a personal injury attorney. However, you should inform them you were in an accident. Share with them briefly what happened. Never admit fault during the conversation.
You can provide them with your name, insurance company, and the name of your attorney, but politely decline to give them any additional information.
Your initial medical bills are typically covered by your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, regardless of who caused the accident. PIP covers 80% of your medical expenses and 60% of lost wages, up to a $10,000 limit (for those who have sought medical treatment within 14 days). For your vehicle, repairs are usually handled through the at-fault driver’s Property Damage Liability (PDL) coverage or your own collision coverage. If your medical bills exceed your PIP limits or you have suffered a significant injury, we can help you pursue a claim against the at-fault party to work toward recovering the remaining costs over and above the $10,000 limit, including pain and suffering.
