Car Accident Questions and Answers

Car Accident Questions and Answers

Should I contact an Alabama lawyer for a car accident?

Not everyone who has been involved in a car accident needs to hire an attorney. However, if you are injured, you should talk to an attorney before you give a recorded statement or talk to the insurance company. A lawyer can explain the process to you and help you from making a mistake in your case.

Is it worth getting a Alabama lawyer for minor car accident?

When your injuries and property damages are minor, you may not need to hire an attorney. Since most car accident attorneys offer free consultations, there is no reason not to talk to an attorney after your accident.

When should I hire an Alabama attorney for a car accident?

You should talk to an attorney on the phone or in person before you talk to your insurance or the liable parties insurance adjuster. You have medical bills, property damage and lost wages, so the sooner you talk to an attorney the better. In general, a person should contact an attorney shortly after their accident.

How do I settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

You should never settle a serious injury case without an attorney. If a minor accident, do the following.

  • Evaluate your injury and property damage
  • Get medical treatment
  • Speak to the insurance adjuster
  • Collect your medical records and bills
  • Write a demand letter

How is pain and suffering valued at in a car accident?

There is no magic formula to calculate pain and suffering. The multiplier method is an equation used by insurance companies in the past and is a common way to calculate pain and suffering damages. Other insurance companies use computer programs and medical billing codes to determine your pain and suffering and damages. Pain and suffering is really determined by how bad you were hurt, even though your pain and suffering may be worse than someone else with the same injury.

How much does my lawyer get from my settlement?

It is based on the contract you sign with your attorney. Most contingency fee agreements are between 33% and 40% of the final settlement amount.

What should I ask for in a car accident settlement?

Your settlement demand should include the costs of your medical bills, the cost of any physical therapy, your lost wages from work, and an amount for pain and suffering.

Can someone sue you after a settlement?

When a case is settled, the party receiving money has to sign a settlement release. They cannot sue you after they sign the release.

How much is a soft tissue injury worth?

Soft tissue injuries are not worth near as much money as broken bone and surgery cases. It all depends on the damage to your car, treatment and insurance company involved.

Is Alabama a no fault accident state?

Alabama uses a fault-based system for auto insurance claims. When someone causes a car accident in our state, their insurance company typically must pay for the victims’ losses.

What is the average payout for a personal injury claim?

There is no such thing. On the low end, a few thousand dollars. Some car accident cases settle for tens of thousands and even millions of dollars. Payouts are often limited by the amount of insurance available.

Is Alabama a PIP state?

No.

What is a good settlement offer?

A settlement where you can pay your bills, recover lost wages and get money for pain and suffering. A settlement where you are happy with the outcome.

How do I get the most money from a car accident in Alabama?

Here is how to get the most money from a car accident in Alabama.

  • Remain at the Scene of the Car Accident.
  • Gather Information/Pictures at the Scene.
  • Obtain Witness Names and Phone Numbers.
  • Get Medical Treatment.
  • Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company.
  • Get Accident Report.
  • Get all Records and Bills.
  • Talk to an Attorney.
  • Finish Medical Treatment.

Do insurance adjusters lowball?

Yes. Never accept their first offer. Insurance adjusters are never on your side. An insurance adjuster’s job is to protect the interests of the insurance company.

What is it called when a lawyer only gets paid if he wins?

Contingency fee agreement.

How is a settlement paid out?

Normally you sign a release and receive a check within ten days.

Do you pay taxes on insurance settlement?

Only if you are compensated for wage loss. No taxes on personal injury.

What’s the catch with no win no fee?

There is no catch to it.