Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I do after the police have investigated the accident?
A:
- Call your insurance company, inform them that you were in an accident and answer any questions they ask.
- Follow up with your doctor even if you don't think you have injuries. This needs to be done as soon after the accident as possible.
- Take It Easy. Back injuries sometimes don't start hurting until several days after an accident.
- If you have questions about your legal rights, contact your lawyer.
Q: What should I do if the insurance company offers me less money for property damage than I think I deserve?
A: Demand that your car repaired at the body shop of your choice. You do not need accept the insurance company's property damage appraisal. It is in your best interest to obtain 2 or 3 written estimates from different body shops so that you don’t get short changed by the insurance company involved in adjusting your damage.
Q: How much do I get if my vehicle is totaled?
A: Unfortunately, you are generally limited to receiving the NADA book value of the vehicle. If you are able to document recent repairs or improvement you may be able to get a little more.
Q: How long does it take to receive payment for my property damage?
A: The insurance company must settle the property damage claim within thirty (30) days.
Q: If I have been injured, what type of damages does the law authorize me to recover?
A: There are many categories of damages that exist for each plaintiff. Depending on the facts of your specific case, you might be entitled to compensation for one or more of the following categories of injuries:
Past medical expenses, future medical expenses, past and present pain and suffering, future pain and suffering, disability and disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, past lost income, future lost income as well as potentially other categories of injuries. In addition, your spouse or children may be entitled to recover for the loss of affection or loss of household services resulting from your injury.