If you have been injured in an accident, you most likely have many questions about the proper way to obtain money for your injuries. However, it is important to follow a few rules to avoid making a mistake that can cost you for years to come. Below is an overview of personal injury law and how to know if you should accept a check from the at-fault party.
I’m Hurt, Who Pays For My Injuries?
When you are involved in an accident, you must be able to prove you were injured due to another person’s negligence. This means if you are hit by a drunk driver or someone who was driving recklessly, you will likely be able to recover money for your injuries and medical bills. This money usually comes from the at-fault party’s insurance company or the at-fault party himself. However, some cases can be more difficult when it comes to proving who was at fault. In these cases, it is usually best to hire an attorney to represent you.
What Happens After An Accident?
Following an accident, certain steps must be taken to ensure you will be able to file a claim for your injuries. Call the police, so a detailed police report can be filed. If possible, take pictures of your vehicle and the crash scene. In addition, take pictures of your injuries for documentation. Never admit the accident was your fault right after an accident or accept any money from the other driver involved. Doing so may have a negative impact if you file a personal injury claim later on.
What If The Driver Wants To Give Me A Check?
If you are in an accident and the other driver involved tries to give you a check on the spot, do not take it. He may be offering to pay you to keep you from contacting his insurance company or he may not have insurance at all. Since personal injury law can be complicated, it is always best to refuse any payment from the other driver. Instead, get his driver license number, insurance information and a copy of the police report.
What Do I Do If The Insurance Company Offers Me A Check?
While you may have mounting medical bills and may be missing time from work, it is best if you do not accept a check from the insurance company without consulting with an attorney. It is the primary job of insurance adjusters to save their company as much money as possible when offering a settlement. This means, they will most likely offer you far less than what you may actually be entitled to. In many cases, a fair settlement is not reached until an attorney negotiates with the insurance company.
How Can A Lawyer Help Me?
Personal injury lawyers have been trained to interpret the law in accident cases. If you are unsure how to proceed, they may be able to take steps to help you. A lawyer may be able to hire someone to investigate the crash or locate medical experts who may be able to testify on your behalf if your case goes to trial.
If you have been involved in an accident, it is always best to consult with an attorney before taking a check from the at-fault driver or his insurance company. This is the best way to be sure you are getting the highest level of compensation for your injuries after an accident. Immediately after an accident, you may not realize your injuries are severe or you may need ongoing medical treatment. You may also not be able to return to work for a period of time. If you become disabled after an accident, you may not earn as much money as you could before you were hurt. All of these things must be considered before taking any monetary payment after your accident. An experienced attorney can examine your case and help you decide the best way to proceed in the months ahead.
Need legal help? Our Los Angeles car accident attorneys and Los Angeles personal injury lawyers are available to help whenever, and wherever, you need it.
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