Why You Should Consult With an Auto Accident Lawyer
The no fault auto insurance law covers injuries and property damage, unless the negligent driver was insured. It's important to consult with an attorney in the event of a car accident prior to making a recorded or a written statement to an insurer.
If your case is taken to court, oral and written statements could be used against you. An experienced car accident attorney will know how to make a case and then try it for maximum value.
Damages
There are two types of damages a victim may receive after a car accident. These are economic and non-economic. Economic damages are measurable losses that can be easily established. Medical bills, lost wages, and repair costs for vehicles are some examples. Non-economic damages, on other hand, are much more difficult to quantify. These damages can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of living.
A skilled lawyer for car accidents can assist victims in claiming their maximum amount of compensation. auto accident lawyer santa maria can also help get a fair settlement with the insurance company of the driver who was at the fault. If the insurance company doesn't agree to payment, they can take the case to court.
A competent lawyer for car accidents must ensure that the victims are compensated for all possible losses and expenses. This can be done by collecting as much information as they can from the scene of the accident. For instance, they could take photos of the scene of the accident and gather details from witnesses. This will ensure that the insurance company does not attempt to minimize a claim, or deny it altogether.
Additionally, a car accident attorney should help victims calculate the full cost of their injuries. This includes past and future medical treatments, as well as any expenses related to the home or hiring a person to do chores or cook, if the injury has made it impossible for the victim to carry out these tasks.
Medical bills
Medical bills can quickly mount up after a car crash. Even with no-fault coverage or a personal injury lawsuit settlement these bills will not magically disappear. You have to pay them now and not later.
There are two easy ways to pay for medical expenses through your car insurance and your health insurance. The first is usually referred to as Med Pay in New York, and it covers your initial medical costs after an auto accident regardless of who caused the collision. This is typically a state-funded program (Medicare) or via a private insurer's plan.
Always go to the doctor if you feel sick or if the injuries you've sustained don't appear to be severe. A quick examination can ensure that all your injuries are properly treated including any internal injuries. In addition your visit will result in an medical report that could be vital in an action.
If these two options have been exhausted, you can look to the at-fault driver's liability insurance, if their policy is sufficient to compensate for your losses. Remember, however that you'll have to pay your own deductible and copays prior to paying. Ultimately, you'll be reimbursed for your accident-related expenses once an acceptable settlement is reached with the party at fault. This is why it's crucial to keep an eye on all your expenses and anything you spend out of pocket.
Lost wages
In addition to medical expenses and property damage, a severe car accident can also result in lost wages. If you're not able to work because of an injury sustained from a crash, it can be extremely stressful to keep up with your financial obligations daily. You may need to borrow money from your family or rely on personal savings until the case is settled. An experienced New York car accident attorney can examine your case and determine if you have an appropriate claim for loss of earnings.
In cases of car accidents, a judge will make a decision to award compensatory damages to reimburse you the money you would have made if you hadn't been injured. Hourly wages, overtime and benefits are all included in the phrase "economic damages." This payment is designed to restore you to the financial position that you were in prior to the accident.
If you're working but aren't due to an injury the judge will determine the amount you've lost by reviewing a letter from the plaintiff's employer that confirms the salary or hourly wage and the time they've been away from work. Bank statements and paycheck stubs are also relevant. Profit-and-loss accounts, tax returns and profit-and-loss reporting can also be included.
In addition to the loss of income In addition to lost income, an attorney for auto accidents can pursue compensation for future lost earnings. This is a complicated aspect of your injury that can be difficult to prove and will require the assistance of an expert witness.
Pain and suffering
You may be left with unpaid medical bills, damage to your property and income if you suffer a serious car accident. You could also suffer emotional and psychological trauma. The suffering and pain that you feel is real and requires compensation. A lawyer can assist you to obtain the money you're due.
A lawyer can assist you resolve issues with insurance companies. Insurance adjusters are motivated by their own financial interests and will often attempt to deny or reduce your claim. A lawyer for car accidents can protect you against these tactics and negotiate a an appropriate settlement of your injuries and losses.
Keep track of all the expenses and damage to property that you have incurred as a result of the accident. This includes medical bills, estimates for repairs, and receipts for any damaged items. Photograph your injuries and the scene of the accident. You should avoid discussing the accident with anyone except police officers and medical professionals.
A lawyer can assist you determine the person responsible for the accident. New York is a state that utilizes "comparative negligence" which means that the amount you're awarded for damages will be reduced by the percentage of your responsibility. In some instances the responsible party could be a city, corporation or state agency or a sanitation or public transportation company.