Questions About An Accident Involving A Personal Injury?
Being involved in an accident that involves a serious injury to you or a family member can be a painful and confusing time. The physical well-being of those injured is your first priority, and seeking immediate medical evaluation and treatment is paramount. But the implications of accident-related injuries can extend far beyond immediate needs and can affect the rest of your life. Knowing what to do can assist you in getting the treatment you need and covering bills when you can’t work.
Frequently Asked Questions — Personal Injury Lawyer — Pasco County
What do I do if I’m injured in an accident?
After attending to your medical needs — get all the information you can! Friends and relatives can be helpful here if they are available. Do not count on police reports!
Important information includes:
- The tag numbers of all vehicles involved
- The names and all contact information of any witnesses
- Pictures of all vehicles involved (mobile phones can be useful here)
Then, as soon as possible, contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can provide advice regarding your options and help you file a personal injury lawsuit if appropriate. Be sure to speak directly with an attorney right here in New Port Richey, or in your local area.
What if I’ve been injured by a drunk driver?
Seek necessary medical assistance and follow the recommendations above for all accidents. The person who injured you could face criminal charges, and you may be able to pursue a civil claim against him/her. You are also entitled to punitive damages and compensation due to the drunk driver’s negligence.
When is an accident-related death a wrongful death?
A wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the negligence of another. If someone is killed in a vehicle accident caused by a reckless or illegal act, the responsible party is accountable for the victim’s death. Deaths resulting from an accident caused by a drunk driver are considered wrongful deaths. Victim’s family members may be entitled to compensation including direct expenses resulting from the death, lost wage support for dependent family members and an amount of money decided by the court to punish the reckless driver.
Who is responsible in a traffic accident?
In general a person who disobeyed one or more traffic laws with a resulting accident is considered responsible for the accident. Common violations that indicate responsibility include failure to stop at a stop sign or to yield when required, speeding, tailgating and driving under the influence. In some cases a driver may be considered at fault even if technically obeying the law. For example if high traffic, fog or slippery conditions are present, a driver doing the speed limit may still be considered at fault for not adjusting to dangerous conditions.
How will I pay my medical bills?
If negligence on the part of another driver can be established, you may be entitled to file a civil suit and recoup medical and other expenses. If negligence cannot be established, then there is generally a $10,000 PIP limit with vehicle insurance paying 80 percent and you being responsible for 20 percent. In most cases involving serious injury, you will be responsible for paying most of your medical bills. Frequently your lawyer will be representing you in negotiations with your own insurance company. Also, if you do not have health insurance, a lawyer can help you negotiate with medical providers.
What does it mean if my car was ‘totaled’?
When an insurance company indicates that your car was “totaled” this normally means that the estimated cost to repair your car is at least 80 percent of its value. In this case, your insurance company will pay you the current cash value of your car.
How do I go about making an insurance claim for injuries sustained in my car accident?
It’s important to hire an attorney prior to filing an accident claim that involves injuries. I will help you answer questions regarding rates, policies, adjustments and other areas of importance. Most insurance companies will follow a standard investigation process following an accident that does not consider all of your rights or future costs to you. Protect your rights and contact an experienced personal injury attorney.
Who pays for my rental car while my car is being repaired?
Rental car costs may be covered by your insurance company or another driver’s insurance company depending on the circumstances and the type of insurance coverage you have.
How long does an insurance company have to settle a claim?
There is a four-year statute of limitations on insurance settlements. Having a personal injury attorney working for you can greatly speed up the insurance settlement process as well as help to arrive at a settlement that is fair and in your best interest.