Answers To 10 Common Questions About Auto Accidents
1. Why Do I Need A Lawyer?
You need a lawyer for your own protection. The insurance company would love to settle your claim without any lawyers involved. Most people do not realize what they are entitled to. A qualified lawyer can evaluate your case and demand a fair settlement.
2. How Will I Pay For My Medical Bills?
The at-fault party’s insurance should pay for all medical bills related to your accident. You may also be entitled to medical payment coverage from your own car insurance policy in addition to the at-fault person’s settlement. This will not increase your insurance premium. You may also use Health insurance, Medicaid and Medicare to pay medical bills. Most chiropractors will delay billing you until your case .
3. Do I Have To Go To Court If I Hire A Lawyer?
No. Our goal is to make the insurance company pay a fair settlement without having to go to court. If you are not satisfied with the insurance company’s best offer, you have the option of going to court. This is your decision.
4. How Long Will My Case Take?
Most cases are settled shortly after you are released from your doctor’s care. To assist in receiving a fair settlement, it’s important to wait until you are finished treating before settling. Once a case is settled, you can’t go back to the insurance company to ask for more money.
5. Should I Speak With The Insurance Company?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! The insurance company may want to take a recorded statement in an effort to build their case. Do not speak with anyone at the insurance company until you have first spoken with one of our lawyers. We routinely participate in recorded statements via three way conference calling to make sure that the insurance company is playing by the rules.
6. How Much Is My Case Worth?
A number of things determine the amount of your recovery such as: the severity of your injuries, property damage, medical bills, lost wages, any impairment rating and other related factors. In order to determine the total cost of your recovery, you must first complete your medical treatment before a lawyer can evaluate the worth of your case.
7. Am I Entitled To a Rental Car? How Long Can I Keep?
Most insurance companies will provide you with a rental car if your car is damaged in an accident. You’re typically allowed to keep the rental until the repairs on your car are complete. If the other person’s insurance company doesn’t offer you a rental car, your own insurance company might be able to provide you with a rental car.
8. What Do I Do After Hiring A Lawyer?
Focus on getting better. Do exactly what your doctors tell you to do. Let your lawyer deal with all the insurance papers and headaches. Your lawyer will know how to move your case forward while you recover.
9. What If The At Fault Driver Didn’t Have Car Insurance?
We’ll look to see if the vehicle was insured by anyone other than the driver. If not, we’ll check to see if your policy offers uninsured motorists coverage. If it does, this coverage may be responsible for paying your damages.
10. Will A Lawyer Charge Me For Discussing My Accident?
VanLaningham & Associates will give you a FREE consultation and will try to answer any questions you may have regarding your auto-accident.
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