Getting Answers To Your Car Accident Questions
Recovering from a car accident can be a confusing process. When you are looking for guidance after someone hurt you in a car accident, our team at the Law Office of Jeffrey A. Jones, P.A., is here to help. Our Minnesota attorneys help clients throughout the state with their personal injury claims. As we help clients with cases such as those involving car accidents, we take the time to answer their questions, such as:
When should I get an attorney for a car accident?
The sooner you reach out to a lawyer for help the better, but your health comes first. Before you contact us for the help you need with your claim, be sure to report the accident to the police and ask for an ambulance if you need one. Once you have contacted the authorities and gotten the necessary medical attention, reach out to us to proceed with your recovery process.
Why should I get a car accident attorney?
The services a personal injury attorney offers can be instrumental in the success of your claim. We can manage the details of your case while you focus on your health, identify a fair compensation goal that reflects the current and future costs of your injuries, negotiate for an outcome you deserve or fight for in court if necessary.
What to do after a car accident when it is not your fault?
There are many mistakes that can cost you the compensation you deserve, even when you are not at fault. After an accident, make sure you do not apologize for an accident you did not cause, as the liable party may try to use that against you. Additionally, make sure you do not discuss the details of your case without your attorney present, as saying the wrong thing can give an insurance company an opportunity to minimize the compensation they provide you. Lastly, be sure to keep thorough documentation of every detail related to your case, including medical information, lost income and property damage expenses to help bolster your compensation claim.
What is considered a serious car accident?
Serious accidents involve long-term injury consequences, known as catastrophic injuries. These injuries include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), nerve damage, paralysis, loss of a limb, and scarring or burning. Because these injuries can affect you for a lifetime, the compensation you receive should reflect those costs.
How long after a car accident can you file a lawsuit?
In Minnesota, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a compensation claim. While this may seem like plenty of time to pursue a settlement, keep in mind these cases can take months or longer in some cases.
Should you report the accident to your insurance company?
Yes. Even if the accident was not your fault, you will need to make a report to your insurance provider. They can help you as you seek compensation from the party that was responsible. You are not necessarily asking your insurance company to cover the costs, and the accident may not impact your rates if it was the other driver’s fault, but you should still make the report.
Should you speak to the other driver’s insurance company?
No, you typically do not have to talk to the other driver’s insurance company. Once you make the report to your own company, they will work on your behalf to inform the other driver’s insurance company that they’ve been involved in an accident.
How soon should you see a doctor after a serious car accident?
If it’s a serious car accident, your number one goal should be getting medical assistance as quickly as possible. Not only is this helpful because you get the medical care that you need, but you also get medical reports and documentation of your injuries. You may need to seek compensation for these costs from the other driver.
Were you involved in a car accident where the other driver had no insurance?
It’s illegal for drivers in Minnesota not to carry insurance, but some of them choose to do so anyway. If you are hit by one of these drivers, you may be able to get coverage from your own insurance provider. It’s often important to have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage as part of your policy.
What is the one thing you must never do after an auto accident?
Do not admit fault. Remember that, even if you believe you were at fault in the chaos following the car accident, a crash investigation may actually determine that you didn’t do anything wrong. Don’t say anything at the scene that can be used against you—just exchange information with the other driver, contact the authorities and take pictures to document the scene.
If you are looking for the compensation you need to cover the costs of your injuries, contact us today to begin developing a personalized strategy to help you through your case today. Call our Golden Valley office at 612-234-2992 or email us here to schedule your initial consultation today.