The car accident lawyers at Munley Law understand that legal matters can be complex and sometimes overwhelming following a car crash. You may find that you have more questions than you do answers. So, we’ve created this resource to provide clear, straightforward information about what to expect after a car accident and how our auto accident attorney can help.
Contact Munley Law now to schedule a free consultation if you were involved in a car accident.
Q: If I’ve Been in a Car Accident, do I Need a Lawyer?
A: It depends. If you did not suffer any injuries in the accident, you may settle your insurance claim without legal help. However, the claim becomes more complicated if you or someone you know were injured in the accident. As the injured victim, you can seek compensation from the at-fault party for your medical costs, pain and suffering, and other losses. Insurance companies have high-paid lawyers and experts who will fight against you to ensure you get as little money as possible. Statistically, people represented by lawyers get three times more settlement money than people who do it themselves. So, while you don’t need a lawyer, having legal representation can ensure that you receive the compensation you are owed. If you’re unsure if you need a car accident lawyer, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Q: How Much Will I Have to Pay a Lawyer for Help After an Auto Accident?
A: The great thing about our personal injury lawyers is that we only get paid if we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of the money we recover for you. This lets you choose the best lawyer for your case without worrying about paying big legal fees. Rest assured, our fee will not amount to more than the sum paid to you (35% is standard but may vary depending on the case). And you never will have to pay anything upfront or out of pocket.
Q: What Types of Expenses Can I Get Reimbursed For After a Car Accident?
A: In addition to medical bills, lost wages, and damage to your vehicle, you may get reimbursed for:
- emotional distress
- pain and suffering
- loss of enjoyment (if you can no longer enjoy or participate in activities, hobbies, sports, etc.)
- loss of property in your vehicle or on your person at the time of the accident
Q: What Should I Do Right After a Car Accident?
A: After a car accident, we suggest you:
- Remain calm and remain in your vehicle (unless it’s too dangerous to do so)
- Turn on your hazard lights
- Call 911 even if your accident seems minor
- Seek medical attention for any injured drivers or passengers
- Unless necessary, do not move the vehicles until the police arrive
- Never leave the scene of the accident
- Write down the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all parties involved, including any witnesses
- Make sure you write down the names and badge numbers of any police officers that are investigating the accident
- Photograph the vehicles and any injuries sustained by you or your passengers
- Do not admit fault
- Immediately notify your own insurance company of the car accident
Do not discuss the accident with anyone except the police or your own insurance agent or representative; you are not required to give a statement to anyone but the police and your insurance company
Q: What Should I Do in the Days Following My Car Crash?
A: Here are the steps you should take:
- Obtain a copy of the accident report prepared by the police
- Obtain a property damage valuation from your insurance company
- Write down all visits with doctors and other healthcare providers, and keep a journal of any symptoms or pain you experience. Also, get copies of all test results, medications, treatments, and any other relevant medical information
- Keep a detailed list of any out-of-pocket expenses you incur
- Record days of missed work or other activities in which you were unable to participate
- Never accept a settlement offer from an insurance carrier unless you have consulted with a lawyer
Q: If the Other Driver Flees the Scene, What Can I Do?
A: Under state law, you must stop and call the police immediately after an auto accident. But sometimes, a driver may be scared or believe they have done something illegal and would flee the scene. A hit and run accident is considered a crime and a hefty fine, especially if an injury is involved.
If you are a hit and run victim, your first step after calling the police is to write down as much information as you can about the vehicle. This includes the color, make, model, and license plate number. Any detail about the other driver’s vehicle will help police find the driver.
Q: What Happens if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
A: If the other driver does not have insurance, it’s important to contact an auto accident lawyer at Munley Law to see what options are available for you. In this case, you may recover some of your compensation by filing an uninsured motorist claim. This coverage will pay any medical bills or property damages when the at-fault driver does not have insurance.
Q: Should I Notify My Insurance Company After an Auto Accident?
A: Yes. Even if you think you may file a lawsuit, informing your insurance company about your car accident is important. But be careful with how much you tell the carrier. Keep to the general facts of the case, such as the date and time the accident occurred, where it happened, and any contact information of those involved. Don’t mention who is at fault, even if the other driver was clearly wrong. And whatever you do, don’t give a recorded statement until you consult with your Scranton car accident lawyer.
Q: Even If I Wasn’t Injured, Should I See a Doctor Following an Auto Accident?
A: Yes. Getting into a car accident is one of the most stressful times in your life. With your emotions running high and adrenaline pumping, you may not realize you were injured. You should always get checked out by a doctor, if not immediately after the accident, within the next couple of days. You never know if you received an internal injury until it’s too late.
Q: Should I Accept an Offer From My Insurance Company?
A: In many situations, the insurance company will offer a lowball sum that barely covers the costs of your accident. Before accepting any offer, speak to your Scranton car accident attorney. Our attorney will go through all your costs and give you a fair estimate of what your settlement offer should really be.
Q: Can I Request More Money to Cover the Costs?
A: Yes, you can negotiate with the insurance company. But remember, the insurance company is not your friend and will try to pay your claim with the lowest amount possible. It has its own attorneys working with them to keep payments at a minimum, so you should contact an auto crash attorney for your claim.
Q: Can I File a Car Accident Lawsuit to Obtain More Money?
A: There’s no straight yes or no answer to this question. Each accident is different — from a minor fender bender that causes a head injury to a multi-vehicle accident that you walk away from with just a broken arm. That’s why speaking with an experienced car accident lawyer is essential to learn your options and whether you may get more money from your claim.
