by Mark M.
by SG
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What should I do following a vehicle accident?
You should seek medical attention promptly after any motor vehicle accident. It may take several days to determine the full extent of your injuries. It is important that you obtain a medical assessment and follow the recommended treatment.
You should also begin to keep a written journal recording all the complications you experience as a result of the accident and personal injury lawyer. You will want a record of doctor appointments, prescriptions, missed work, pain, and limitations on daily activities.
Do I need a personal injury lawyer to help me with my case?
You are not required to be represented by a lawyer. However, a lawyer who is familiar with personal injury law can relieve you of many of the burdens of the claim process, such as obtaining medical and police reports, meeting filing deadlines, and negotiating with the insurance company. Your personal injury attorney will also help you determine the appropriate level of compensation and negotiate to achieve that level of recovery. A personal injury lawyer will also be able to present your case in court if the insurer refuses to provide you with a settlement that adequately addresses your injury.
What types of recovery am I entitled to?
If you have been injured due to the negligence or fault of another person, you may be able to recover damages in the following categories: medical expenses, property damage, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. Depending on the circumstances, you may also be entitled to recover punitive damages or additional compensation attributable to a permanent disability.
How long will it take for me to receive compensation?
Property damage claims are typically resolved quickly.
The final settlement for a personal injury claim may take from several weeks to a couple years, depending on the severity of the personal injuries and the length of the healing process. It is best to wait until you have reached the maximum level of improvement before resolving your claim in order to avoid a settlement that does not account for any lingering or permanent harm.
In some cases, it is possible to receive a limited amount of compensation before the final settlement. This depends in part on the riders to the insurance policy.
Should I accept an offer from the insurance carrier?
You should not settle your personal injury claim until you have completely recovered from your injuries. Although it is tempting to accept the initial offer and have the case behind you, this could cost you a large part of your potential recovery. It may take several months before you achieve your maximum recovery and know whether there will be any permanent injury.
What will I have to pay the lawyer to represent me?
For that you can contact us and there is no cost for the initial consultation at the law office of Michael C. Tillotson, L.L.C.
You will not have to pay any fee to the law firm until the insurance company provides you with compensation. The firm’s fee will be based on a percentage of the total recovery you receive from the insurer.
You will be responsible for any costs associated with your case as they are incurred. These include the costs incurred to obtain medical reports and police reports.
What if the other driver was uninsured or underinsured?
When the driver who was responsible for personal injury either has no insurance or insufficient insurance to compensate you for your damages, then you may seek recovery through the uninsured/underinsured motorist provisions of your own automobile insurance policy and/or from the personal assets of the other driver.
How will my medical bills be paid?
Since it may take several months before you are compensated by the insurance company of the individual or business responsible for your injury, you should use the benefits of your personal health insurance policy to begin your assessment and treatment.
If you have been involved in a car accident, then a limited amount of money may be available quickly if either you or the other driver has a medical payments rider.
Some physicians will be willing to work with you on your payments when they are aware that you are represented by an attorney for an active personal injury claim.
It is very important that you use all the resources at your disposal to obtain a diagnosis and begin treatment as soon as possible after the accident. Any delay could have a negative impact on the outcome of your case.
Do I have a personal injury case?
To pursue a personal injury case, you must show that you were injured because of the fault or negligence of another person. You will have to prove both the liability of the other party and the extent of the damages you have suffered. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can help you determine the merits and value of your claim.
