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1. What should I do if I’m involved in a car accident? Document the
entire situation making daily notes of the effects of your injuries. Also report
the accident to the DMV and never admit responsibility.
2. Why do I need uninsured motorist insurance? An extraordinarily high
percentage of motorists on California highways are uninsured motorists, or
underinsured. If you are unfortunately hit by one of them, if you have uninsured
motorist coverage, your own policy will cover your losses.
3. Is it true that if I rear-end a car that I’m at fault? Almost always
the answer is yes. The law says that you have to maintain a safe distance to be
able to stop safely if a car stops in front of you.
4. How long will it take to get money in my case? No exact scenario here.
Getting to trial may take more than a couple of years. It is always possible to
settle out of court before trial.
5. I didn’t go to the doctor right away and now I have pain? Be sure to
document when you noticed the pain and when you went to the doctor. It is not
abnormal for pain to begin and increase substantially after the car accident.
6. Do I need an attorney? It is in your best interest to consult with an
attorney. We offer a free initial consultation. Why wait? Call now.
7. The other driver doesn’t have car insurance; how am I supposed to collect
money from him now? Often times a person’s personal assets will come into
play in a case such as this. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you may
proceed against your own policy.
8. Will my insurance company pay for my medical bills while I wait to go to
trial? Often times, yes, to a certain amount and then they may get
reimbursed once the case is complete. You may also be treated on a lien basis if
you have no insurance coverage
9. How am I supposed to get back and forth while my car is in the shop?
Check your insurance policy; many will have a clause that allows you to rent a
car. Be sure to track the expense involved as this is considered a cost that you
suffered, and may be reimbursed to you upon completion of your case.
10. I can’t work; can I file for unemployment even though litigation is
pending? No. However, you may file for State Disability if you are unable to
work due to your injury.
11. How much money can I expect to get in a settlement? Many facts are
taken into consideration, including, but not limited to your medical expenses,
property damage, loss of earnings, etc.
12. Should I settle ahead of trial? This varies from each case and each
individual. Know that going to trial may take years, but many times the judgment
in court may be larger than in a settlement before trial. You must weigh the
time factors and risks involved.
13. The other driver’s insurance company offered me money. I haven’t even
hired an attorney, but I could really use the cash. Should I take it? No.
Tell the insurance company that you’ll get back to them. In the meantime,
contact an attorney immediately. Often times an insurance company will offer a
minimal amount of money in return for your signature stating that you won’t sue
them. Never take an insurance check without first consulting an attorney.
14. What if I can’t afford an attorney? Normally, in cases such as these,
you don’t pay the attorney any money until, and if, we win your case. When we
win, the usual fee is 33% of the settlement, paid at the conclusion of your
case.
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