Car Accident Lawyer
Being in a car accident can be terrifying. They are unexpected and can cause serious damage to you, other passengers, and your car. Often after an accident, you remember to do some of the basics: check to see if you and other passengers are okay, talk with the other driver, exchange insurance information, and go on your way. After the fact, you realize there are many questions you wish you had asked or information you think you should not have given. So what is the best protocol after an accident, particularly ones that result in injuries? How much information should you give to insurance and the other driver?
What If the Other Driver’s Insurance Wants My Medical Records?
When someone with authority calls, you might not be sure how much information you are supposed to give them. Is it illegal if you don’t comply? In this scenario, it is best to speak with your attorney before having any medical records released to an outside party.
I Was Not Wearing a Seatbelt At the Time Of the Accident. Will This Hurt My Chance Of Recovering Damages?
The answer to this will depend on the state you were in when you got into an accident. Depending on local law, if you were injured in an accident and you were not wearing your seatbelt, this could reduce your compensation or it could wipe out your possibility for compensation altogether. It can be hard to prove how much damage would have been done if you were wearing a seatbelt. However, in some states not wearing a seatbelt might not affect what you receive in damages.
I Don’t Feel Bad After the Accident. Should I still See a Doctor?
Anyone who was involved in the accident should see a doctor. Many times, injuries and pain might not present themselves until after the fact. Whiplash can creep up on you, you might have sustained a concussion, or there could be internal bleeding that you are unaware of. It is always best to seek medical treatment to have your injuries looked at and to have a medical record showing that you took your injuries seriously.
Do I Have To Go To Court If I file a Claim?
This will all depend on whether you choose to settle outside of court. If the other driver’s insurance company reviews what you are asking for and agrees to it, you and your attorney can choose to settle this claim out of court. However, many times the insurance company will argue the number you and your attorney believe you deserve, in which case this claim will go to trial.
Do I Need To Hire an Attorney After a Car Accident?
While it might not always seem necessary to have legal representation after a minor fender bender, being injured after a serious auto accident can be life-changing. An attorney will not only look into every detail of your case, but they will fight to get you the compensation that you deserve after this accident. Especially if you are unable to settle with the insurance company out of court, having a lawyer with experience in auto accident and personal injury cases can make the difference between winning or losing. If you have any further questions, discuss your case with an auto accident lawyer Memphis, TN trusts today.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Wiseman Bray, PLLC for their insight into auto accidents.