Frequent Questions Concerning Auto Accident Cases
We talk to people injured in car accidents every day. For a large number of our clients, it’s the first time they have ever spoken with a lawyer. Listed below are some of the most common questions we hear.
What Will It Cost To Hire A Personal Injury Attorney?
Our fee is based on a percentage of whatever money we recover from the insurance company and other sources. We offer a free initial consultation where we review the circumstances of your accident and determine if it makes sense for you and our firm to work together. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about a fee while your claim is in process.
What Does Contingency Fee Mean?
Contingency fee means that our fees are contingent on winning a settlement. In other words, we don’t get paid until you get a settlement check. Our fees are deducted from your settlement.
How Much Are Car Accident Cases Worth?
If your case goes to court, it is ultimately a judge or jury that decides the value of your claim. However, most claims are settled through negotiation. The value of your claim is determined by several factors including:
- Property damage – The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other real property that was damaged or destroyed in the accident is considered.
- Medical expenses – This consists of everything from the cost of the ambulance, hospital bills and doctor visits to long-term care expenses.
- Lost wages – This means not just lost wages due to missed time at work immediately following the accident, but also future losses based on an accident-related disability.
- Pain and suffering – This includes both physical and emotional suffering such as disfigurement and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages – These types of damages are only awarded when the at-fault driver did something particularly reckless or negligent, such as a hit and run.
It’s impossible to tell you how much your case is worth without first examining the circumstances surrounding your accident and the types of injuries you suffered.
Who Pays My Medical Bills?
You are responsible for making sure your medical bills get paid. Any treatment or medical expenses related to your accident should be submitted to your health insurance, Medicare or Medicaid policy the same as any other medical expense. Always submit your expenses to insurance first.
Is There A Deadline For Filing A Claim?
Yes. Mississippi has a three-year statute of limitations on filing an auto accident injury claim. This deadline is measured from the date of the accident. If you do not file a claim within that time frame, you give up your right to do so forever.
It is to your advantage to file a claim as soon as possible after an accident. The longer you wait, the harder it is to gather evidence and find witnesses to build your case.
Should I Talk To The Other Driver’s Insurance Company?
We recommend that you do not talk to the other driver’s insurance company. If you are contacted by them, refer them to your lawyer. You are not legally required to speak to the other driver’s insurance company. They will most likely be asking you to make a statement on the record. You should always consult your lawyer before making any statements.
Contact The Auto Accident Attorneys At Lancaster | Taylor
If you have questions concerning an auto accident claim, call 662-548-3297 or use our online contact form to schedule a free initial consultation.