Auto Accident FAQ | Phillips Law Group

After an Arizona auto accident, it is important to collect the following information:

• The name, address, telephone number, license number, make and model of vehicles involved, and also the name, policy number and contact information for the insurance companies of all parties involved in the accident.
• Contact information of any witnesses.
• The names and badge numbers of police officers who were dispatched to the scene of the accident.
• Photographs of the crash scene, including all property damage and physical injuries, such as bruises and lacerations.

Should I go to the doctor after my car crash if Im only a little sore?

In accordance with the final point in our car accident FAQ, its a good idea to seek medical attention after a car accident has occurred, even if you do not believe that you have suffered any serious injuries. Often, symptoms of injuries do not become apparent until days after the accident.

Furthermore, going to the doctor immediately after an accident limits the defense’s ability to blame your losses on other factors besides the accident. By having medical records to support your injury claim, you are more likely to recover compensation.

How is fault determined in an auto accident?

Insurance companies generally determine who is at fault in an Arizona car accident. An adjuster will evaluate the circumstances of the accident. This could include relevant traffic laws and other influencing factors, like weather conditions, to determine who was at fault for the crash.

When multiple individuals are at fault, the insurance company will assign percentages or degrees of fault. The amount of compensation awarded to accident victims depends on their percentage of fault in the collision.

What is negligence?

Negligence happens when a person fails to use a reasonable standard of care for the safety of others on the road. To be eligible for an auto accident lawsuit, the injury victim must be able to prove that the accident was caused by the negligence of another driver. If an individual fails to behave as a reasonable driver would, they may be liable for damages caused by the car wreck.

How are damages defined in a motor vehicle accident case?

Damages is the term used to define the compensation awarded for losses that resulted from the accident. Car accident damages can include:

Economic damages such as medical bills, property damage and lost wages
Non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional trauma and loss of quality of life

What if the faulty driver of the accident had no insurance or inadequate insurance to cover all my damages?

If the at-fault driver has no insurance or inadequate coverage to fully cover your losses, you may be able to collect the difference from your own insurance provider if your auto policy includes uninsured motorist coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage is also used in hit-and-run accidents to help injury victims receive compensation for their damages.

When should I contact an attorney?

It is important to contact an experienced auto accident attorney soon after an accident has occurred.

Contacting a lawyer right away could make a significant difference in the outcome of your accident claim. Having the help of an attorney early on will prove advantageous as facts and evidence that support your injury claim will still be fresh and easier to come by.

Additionally, injury lawsuits have a strict statute of limitations. With the aid of a car accident lawyer shortly after a collision, you may increase your chances of receiving a favorable settlement or verdict for your lawsuit.

When should I settle my car accident case?

Do not accept a settlement for your car accident case until you have finished all medical treatments and have been released by your doctor. You may not fully know the extent of your injuries and the treatment required.

However, it is also important to keep in mind the statute of limitations for your claim. A knowledgeable auto accident attorney will be able to determine the statute of limitations that may apply in your situation. Deadlines mayvary based on the specific circumstances of the case.

Is there anything I should NOT do after a vehicle accident?

There are a few things that an accident victim should avoid doing after an auto collision.

• Never give a statement to the other driver’s insurance company or your own provider without seeking legal counsel.
• Never admit responsibility for the accident to anyone present at the scene of the crash, including police officers, paramedics and witnesses.
• Never leave the scene of the wreck without notifying the police – evenif it is clear that you were not at fault. Proper documentation of the accident may benefit your claim.

If you have been injured in an auto accident and are looking to find out if you have a case –Phillips Law Groupis here to help.

Call for your FREE case review: 1-800-706-3000