Car Accidents – FAQs

Should I admit fault for the accident?

No, never admit fault for an auto accident. While you may believe you are at fault for the accident, you may not be aware of all the facts and circumstances that were at play. Fault will be determined upon further investigation. [Back to Car Accident FAQs](#car-accident-faqs)

Should I call the police after an accident?

Call the police if there is:

I don’t feel injured – do I have to see a doctor?

For purposes of your health and any insurance claims you file, it's best to always seek medical attention, then legal help, as soon as possible following a car crash. A doctor may recognize injuries, sometimes serious, that are not apparent to you and are eligible for claims. The charges for a doctor visit and medical treatment may be covered by your insurance. It's not recommended that you settle claims from an accident until a doctor has seen you and advised you about the extent of your injuries. [Back to Car Accident FAQs](#car-accident-faqs)

Do I have a time limit to recover for injuries against other parties?

Each state has its own statute of limitations (a law that determines the timeframe during which you can take legal action). Hiring an accident attorney can help you navigate that timeframe. These time limits vary for each type of claim brought. Even within one type of claim, time limits vary for different aspects. Time limits vary as short as 14 days to recover for emergency medical bills (ambulance rides). [Back to Car Accident FAQs](#car-accident-faqs)

What if my car is totaled?

Usually, an insurance company will deem a vehicle a total loss (or “totaled”) if the cost to repair the vehicle exceeds a certain percentage of the vehicle's worth.

I’ve been in a car accident – what should I do first?

There are several steps you should take immediately following a car accident:

Who is responsible for car repair costs?

Generally, the insurance company of the party at fault is responsible for paying car repair costs. However, some factors could muddy those waters.

When should I hire a lawyer?

While you should consider hiring an accident attorney if there's severe property damage and you don't feel the insurance company is fairly compensating you, you should always hire a personal injury attorney if you've been injured in an accident. [Back to Car Accident FAQs](#car-accident-faqs)

If I file a personal injury claim, will I have to go to court?

This is dependent upon you. If another driver's insurance company agrees to pay what your attorney believes your case is worth, and you wish to settle for that amount, then your case will not go to court. This is usually what occurs. Some cases do require a formal trial proceeding if you or your attorney feel you have not been compensated sufficiently. In either situation, hiring a law firm with experience in handling personal injury cases is most helpful. [Back to Car Accident FAQs](#car-accident-faqs)

I was involved on a car accident last Saturday where I was hit from the rear. I haven’t received any medical attention. What should I do?

If you would like to pursue a personal injury claim because you were not at fault, it is important that you seek treatment within 14 days. If you do not seek treatment within those 14 days, you will not be able to bring a claim against the other driver’s insurance company. You do not need a lawyer to seek the treatment within that 14 days, you should seek the treatment and if you would like to contact us, we will get you in as soon as possible and we can start that process. There are no upfront fees or cost for you to retain our office.

What if my injuries keep me from working?

Generally, personal injury attorneys take lost wages due to injury into account when filing suits against insurance companies.