FAQ About Car Accidents
Answers you can trust from experienced lawyers
What should you do after a car accident? Should you accept a settlement offer for your accident? How much is your car accident claim worth? These are just some of the questions many people often ask after they have been in a car accident caused by another driver. But where can you find accurate information? Who can you trust?
Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place. Our experienced car accident lawyers at Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC, can answer your questions about your motor vehicle crash. We have extensive knowledge about how the legal system works when it comes to car accidents because we have represented so many people dealing with serious accidents.
Don’t underestimate the complexity of your legal case. Make sure you take your accident seriously right from the start. Schedule a free case evaluation with one of our experienced attorneys. We can get straight to work on your case and demand the compensation you rightfully deserve for your crash.
What is your car accident question?
Below, you can find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about car accidents. If you don’t see your specific question – or even if you do – we strongly encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced car accident lawyers.
Every car accident is different – and so is our approach to each case. We never take a one-size-fits-all strategy when it comes to investigating car crashes or helping our clients. We take the time to find the facts that matter and build a case that suits your specific circumstances. That’s what sets Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC apart from many law firms – our attention to detail and our drive to succeed. You can count on us after your car accident. Contact us right now.
Why do car accidents happen?
Car accidents caused by other drivers happen for many different reasons. In many cases, crashes happen due to another driver’s reckless or negligent behavior. Common causes of car accidents include:
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Should I call the police after my car accident?
Yes. If you have been in a car accident caused by another driver, make sure you contact the police immediately and ask them to respond to your car accident. Having an official accident report can often be a critical piece of evidence when trying to obtain financial compensation for your car crash.
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Should I see a doctor after my car accident if I feel fine?
Yes. Many car accident injuries are not readily apparent after an accident. You could have a life-threatening internal injury and not even realize it at the time. Other times, what might seem like a mild injury (neck pain, headaches, etc.) could be a symptom of a serious traumatic brain injury (TBI), fractured vertebrae or another type of serious accident. Seek immediate medical attention for your own health and well-being.
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Should I talk to the at-fault driver at my car accident?
Yes. However, keep your comments brief. If you are healthy enough to do so, get the other driver’s name, address, phone number and insurance information. Feel free to give the same information to the other driver. However, don’t discuss the accident. Anything you say (even something as simple as “I’m sorry”) could be used as evidence by the at-fault driver’s insurance company to deny your accident claim.
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Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company if they contact me after my car accident?
No. Even if their questions sound innocent or straightforward, anything you say to them could potentially be used to deny your accident claim. Most insurance companies only care about one thing – making money. As a result, they will often do anything they can to reduce or deny accident claims. You do not legally have to speak with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Simply tell them to contact us. We have years of experience dealing and negotiating with insurance companies on behalf of accident victims.
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Should I accept a settlement offer for my car accident?
It may be tempting to accept a settlement offer from the other driver’s insurance company, especially soon after your accident. Most insurance companies often make lowball offers right away, hoping you will accept the money and forfeit your right to request additional money in the future. We can help you carefully review any settlement offer you receive for your accident. We have your best interests at heart.
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How much is my car accident claim worth?
There’s no set dollar amount when it comes to car accident claims. Some claims may be worth a few thousand dollars. Others may potentially be worth millions of dollars. That’s why it’s important to talk to an attorney at our firm as soon as possible about your crash. We can help you evaluate the details of your case and provide you with an estimate for how much your accident claim may be worth.
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What can I be compensated for after my car accident?
The bottom line is you should be compensated for all your car accident-related expenses, now and in the future. Expenses can cover a wide range, including:
- Emergency medical care
- Ambulance fees
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Hospital fees
- Surgical procedures
- Follow-up medical care
- Physical therapy
- In-home medical care
- Replacement income during your recovery
- Lost future income if you cannot return to work
- Home modifications due to a permanent disability
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Can I file a car accident lawsuit against the insurance company?
Yes. If you believe the at-fault driver’s insurance company is not treating you fairly, made a lowball settlement offer or denied your claim, you can (and should) file a car accident lawsuit to demand the money you deserve. It’s your right and our law firm can help you fight for justice.
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How much time do I have to file a car accident lawsuit?
In most cases, you only have two years from the date of your car accident in both West Virginia and Ohio to file a lawsuit or take other legal action. This deadline (known as the statute of limitations) might seem like a long time. The sooner you take legal action, the stronger your case will be, in many instances. Evidence can disappear over time. Memories can fade. Make sure you have the best evidence possible to support your car accident claim. Talk to an attorney right away.
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Why should I hire a car accident lawyer?
There are many reasons why you should consider hiring an attorney after your car accident. First and foremost, it’s important to remember that a great car accident lawyer can be your voice for justice when it matters most. As your attorney, we can speak on your behalf with insurance companies, in courtrooms and at negotiating tables. In each case, our goal is the same – to secure the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your car accident. Get the law firm that gets results and demands justice. Contact Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC.
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