Auto Accident Lawsuit Questions
What should I do if I get into an accident?
You should not leave the scene of the accident; otherwise you may be criminally prosecuted. If someone has been injured in the auto accident, you should call for an ambulance. Make sure your vehicle is not creating a hazard to other motorists. If the damages are more than $500 and/or an injury is involved, call the police and have them take a report. Do not admit liability—it is a legal matter that will be investigated at a later time. Gather the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of any individuals involved in the accident, including any witnesses. If possible, you may take photographs to document the accident, such as skid marks, road obstructions, and vehicle damage.
If I’m only a little sore, should I see a doctor?
Some injuries won’t arise until after an accident. If you don’t see a doctor, you risk delaying your treatment. Often times, soreness can signify more serious injuries. Insurance companies may try to argue that injuries diagnosed later were unrelated to the motor vehicle accident.
What kind of compensation can I expect if the other driver was at fault?
You could be entitled to medical and pharmacy bill reimbursement for the treatment for injuries sustained during the accident. You could also collect on the cost of future medical treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage and automobile rental charges resulting from the accident.
If the driver at fault did not have insurance, what should I do?
You can only recover if the faulty driver has insurance or available assets. However, he or she might be covered by another person's insurance policy, or by their employer's insurance. If your own insurance policy provides you with "uninsured motorist coverage," you may be entitled to compensation by your own insurance company. You should speak to an experienced auto accident lawyer about your specific situation.
When should I give my statement to the at-fault driver’s insurance company?
As a general rule, you should consult a lawyer first, as these statements are taken to protect the other driver’s legal rights, and can be used against you at a later time.
How long do I have to settle my case?
You should finish your medical treatment first and foremost, and be fully released from your doctor’s care. But also bear in mind the statue of limitations period. You should talk to an auto accident lawyer to determine your applicable time period and other deadlines that might affect your claim, as these vary for each case.
Should I accept a check from the faulty driver or the faulty driver's insurance company?
If you accept a check or sign a release from the faulty driver (or their insurance company) before you’ve completed your medical treatment, or you risk settling for an insufficient amount. You should speak to a lawyer first, as insurance adjusters make a living settling claims for the lowest value possible.
Findlay Law Offices helps auto accident victims who have been injured through no fault of their own. We provide legal and emotional support during your time of need. If you’re in Ontario, in the areas of Toronto, Hamilton, Brantford, Kitchener, Burlington or Niagara Falls, please contact us today. We offer free consultations, where we can help you explore all your legal options today!
THE PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS