If you are injured in a car accident, regardless of how minor your injury may seem, it is important to first seek medical attention then contact a personal injury attorney who can advise you or a family member on the next steps. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical costs, lost compensation for missed work, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Personal injury lawyers only get paid if they win your case and take only a percentage of the amount recovered on your behalf. Statistically, people represented by lawyers get three times the settlement money than a DIY case.
Because insurers prioritize saving money by offering the smallest settlement possible, legal representation can make all the difference when seeking maximum compensation for your injuries and other damages.
What Expenses are Reimbursable after a Car Accident?
Economic damages including medical bills, lost wages and benefits, the cost of replacement and other out of pocket cost paid due to an injury are payable. Non-economic damages include damages arising from pain, suffering and inconvenience, physical impairment, mental anguish, emotional pain and suffering, loss of chance, loss of consortium, and all other non pecuniary damages.
What Should I Do If I Am Involved in a Car Accident?
Most people involved in a car accident do not know what to do afterward – it can be a shocking and frightening experience. If anyone is seriously injured, seek medical attention immediately when calling 911 to report the accident. Unless you are unable or it is dangerous to do so, remain in your vehicle and do not move until police arrive to take a report. If you are able, note the contact information of all involved parties as well as witnesses to the accident and take photographs of the scene including locations of the vehicles, any property damage, and injuries. When the police arrive, do not admit fault and remember to take down the officer’s identification information.
After the Accident
If you are injured seek medical attention immediately even if the injury does not seem serious as the extent to the injuries may not be known and symptoms may grow worse in the days following an accident. Be sure to document all doctors’ visits, medications, treatments and tests following the accident and a detailed list of any out of pocket expenses you incur.
Contact your insurance company promptly, providing only general information of the date, time and location of the accident and any contact information of those involved. Contact a personal injury attorney before providing any recorded statements.
Discuss your situation with a personal attorney ASAP. If your case is accepted, he or she will represent your legal and financial interests. Your attorney can obtain a copy of the police report on your behalf, contact witnesses, and reach out to the at-fault party’s insurer. Do not accept a settlement offer from an insurance carrier until you have discussed your case with an experienced attorney.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer for Help
Being involved in a car accident may result in serious injury and financial harm. If you have been injured in an Iowa car accident, contact Des Moines car accident lawyer Marc Humphrey to discuss your case 515-331-3510.
