This stretch of OBX barrier islands, known for its scenic beauty and tourist appeal, also brings distinct challenges regarding accident claims.

The coastal environment of the Outer Banks, coupled with fluctuating seasonal traffic, contributes to a variety of accident scenarios.

Understanding the nuances of accident claims and dealing with insurance adjusters can be crucial for anyone hurt due to the negligence of other drivers.

On the Outer Banks, where roads are frequently bordered by waterways and soft shoulders, car accidents can result in serious, life-altering injuries.

Similarly, trucking accidents, often involving larger vehicles traversing the narrow OBX roads, bring their own set of complexities. Motorcyclists, drawn by the allure of open coastal roads, also face unique risks.

Each type of accident carries its own legal and procedural subtleties – Danny Glover, OBX Accident Lawyer

Factors such as the nature of the accident, the laws governing vehicle operation in North Carolina, and the impact of coastal weather conditions can all shape the claim process.

Moreover, the emotional and physical toll on your physical and mental well-being cannot be understated after a serious wreck.

For OBX locals and visitors alike, understanding the legal landscape is vital in the event of an accident.

Motorcycle Accident FAQs

This includes knowing your rights, the potential implications of North Carolina’s insurance and personal injury laws, including Contributory Negligence and the Statute of Limitations, and the steps to take immediately following an accident.

While the path to resolution can be intricate, being informed about these processes can help you navigate the complexities confidently.

Our aim is to offer a guiding light through the sometimes murky waters of accident claims in the Outer Banks.

By clearing up common misconceptions and offering insights into some of the specifics of accident claims on the OBX, we hope to provide a resource that empowers you to navigate these challenging situations with better a understanding and preparedness.

Misconception #1: You Can Easily Handle an Insurance Claim without a lawyer

Some people try to manage their accident and insurance claims themselves. While it’s possible, doing so without legal guidance often overlooks the intricate nature of the NC personal injury laws, potentially leading to less favorable outcomes.

At first glance, the process of filing an insurance claim may seem straightforward, but the reality is often far more complex.

Navigating the intricacies of legal procedures, insurance negotiations, and, at times, courtroom protocols, can be overwhelming for someone without a legal background.

For instance, understanding the specifics of North Carolina’s contributory negligence law, which can significantly impact the outcome of a claim, is crucial.

The “contrib” law in NC sets forth that if a person is found even slightly responsible for the accident, they may be barred from receiving any compensation.

The legal pitfalls of Contributory Negligence in North Carolina are not always apparent to the untrained eye and can drastically alter the course of a claim – Danny Glover, Accident Lawyer Outer Banks

Dealing with insurance companies and their adjusters is often a challenging, if not frustrating, aspect of the claims process.

The big insurance companies have their own teams of professionals who are very good at minimizing payouts and denying claims.

They often employ tactics that can be difficult to counter without a thorough understanding of the law and experience in negotiation.

For example, they might offer a quick settlement that seems attractive but fails to fully cover an accident’s long-term costs and impact.

In the unique setting of the Outer Banks, where the nature of the accident could be influenced by coastal conditions, having a full understanding of these factors can prove essential.

It’s easy to overlook the key elements of a claim, leading to a possibly inadequate and/or unfair settlement.

The emotional and physical stress following an accident can impair your ability to make sound, objective decisions.

This stress, coupled with the time-consuming nature of managing a claim, can take a toll on your daily life.

It’s also important to consider the procedural deadlines and documentation required in accident cases and any related insurance claims.

Missing a deadline or failing to properly document injuries and damages can weaken your insurance claim significantly.

While self-representation is a legal right, it’s a good idea to be fully aware of the complexities involved in accident claims after a car accident, motorcycle wreck, or trucking accident on the Outer Banks.

That can be a key aspect of helping ensure that someone hurt due to the negligence of another is fully and fairly compensated.

Misconception #2: Filing a Claim Always Leads to a Lawsuit and Litigation in Court

A prevalent misconception about filing accident claims, particularly in the realm of car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, is the belief that pursuing a claim inevitably leads to a court battle.

This notion, while understandable, does not accurately reflect the reality of most personal injury cases, especially in the context of North Carolina’s Outer Banks.

In reality, the majority of accident claims are resolved without ever setting foot in a courtroom.

The process of resolving a claim typically starts with negotiation, a phase where the parties attempt to reach an agreement on the compensation amount.

This negotiation is often conducted between the claimant’s (plaintiff’s) legal representative (the person hurt in the accident) and the insurance company, through their claims adjuster or the insurance company’s defense attorney.

A substantial number of claims negotiations result in an agreeable settlement to both parties, thus eliminating the need for a trial.

Settlements are generally preferred because they can provide a quicker resolution to the claim, allowing those involved to move forward without the prolonged duration and uncertainty of a trial.

However, it’s important to recognize that negotiation requires a careful balancing act.

Insurance companies, while open to settlements, often initially offer compensation that is well below what the claim might be worth.

Accident lawyers may refer to that as a “lowball offer.”

The negotiation process involves back-and-forth communication, where each side presents their arguments and evidence, trying to reach a compromise.

This phase can be intricate and deserves an in-depth understanding of the claim’s value, an area that those unfamiliar with the NC insurance laws and claims process might find challenging.

When negotiations do not yield a satisfactory outcome, the option to go to trial remains.

Your accident attorney should have substantial courtrom experience. If we say ‘we’ll see you in court,’ we mean it – Danny Glover, OBX Lawyer

Yet, this is often a path taken when all other avenues have been exhausted.

Trials are generally more time-consuming, expensive, and unpredictable.

The decision to proceed to court should be made only after careful consideration of all factors involved, including the strength of the evidence, the specifics of the case, and the potential risks and benefits.

It’s also worth noting that in the unique environment of the Outer Banks, factors such as the availability of the plaintiff or the negligent driver to travel back to the OBX for a trial, can impact the dynamics of a claim.

Many different factors can influence the decision-making process of the person wrongfully injured due to someone else’s negligence, the person responsible for the wreck, and their insurance company, affecting whether a case goes to trial.

While the prospect of a court trial is a possibility in accident claims, it is more of an exception than a norm.

We believe the key is to approach the insurance claim process with a clear understanding of your legal rights and options and the various pathways to resolution.

Being well-informed about these processes enables you to navigate the claim with more confidence and less apprehension about the potential of a court trial.

Misconception #3: Insurance Adjusters are Looking Out for You

Another common misconception in the realm of personal injury claims in North Carolina is the belief that insurance companies will offer full and fair compensation if you’ve been wrongfully injured due to the negligence of their “insured.”

This assumption can lead to the injured party accepting an initial offer without fully understanding their rights or the true value of their claims.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that insurance companies, like any business, aim to minimize their financial outlay.

The first offer made by an insurance company is often a calculated move to close the case quickly and cost-effectively.

These initial proposals may appear attractive, especially to individuals facing mounting medical bills and financial pressures due to their inability to work.

However, “hurry up” offers rarely reflect the full extent of the claimant’s losses and future needs.

Insurance adjusters are skilled negotiators trained to protect the company’s interests.

They may employ various tactics, such as questioning the severity of injuries or suggesting that the claimant was at fault, alleging contributory negligence, even when the facts do not bear such an allegation.

Such strategies are designed to reduce the perceived value of the claim and justify lower settlement offers.

Furthermore, the intricacies of insurance policies and the legal language used in the NC accident laws can be difficult for laypersons to navigate.

Important details regarding coverage limits, exclusions, and clauses related to specific types of injuries or accidents can significantly impact the compensation received.

Without a thorough understanding of these details, claimants might overlook aspects of their claim that could increase their compensation.

Additionally, insurance companies often delay the processing of claims, hoping that the financial strain will compel claimants to settle for less.

This delay tactic can be particularly challenging for those who need immediate financial support to cover medical expenses and lost wages.

Another important aspect to consider is the calculation of non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress.

These damages are subjective and not easily quantifiable, making them challenging to negotiate without a substantial understanding of how they are typically evaluated in personal injury cases.

It’s also worth noting that the specifics of a case, including the nature and extent of injuries, the impact on the claimant’s quality of life, and the circumstances of the accident, play a crucial role in determining the value of a claim.

These factors should be carefully assessed to ensure that the compensation sought truly reflects the claimant’s losses and future needs.

In light of these complexities, it’s evident that relying solely on the insurance company’s assessment of what constitutes fair compensation can lead to inadequate settlements.

Claimants should approach these negotiations with caution and, where possible, seek legal help and guidance to better understand the true value of their claim and their rights.

This approach can significantly influence the outcome of the negotiation process, leading to a more equitable resolution and full and fair settlement.

Misconception #4: There is plenty of time to file an Insurance Claim

A critical misunderstanding that often surfaces in personal injury claims is the belief that there is ample time to file a claim.

Many individuals assume that the process can be initiated at their convenience, underestimating the importance of the legal time constraints known as statutes of limitations.

In reality, these statutes can play a pivotal role in the claims process, setting strict deadlines for filing a lawsuit.

How long do you have to file a claim?

The statute of limitations varies by state and type of claim, and it is essential to be aware of these time frames.

In North Carolina, for instance, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident.

NOTE: FILING A CLAIM WITH THE INSURANCE COMPANY IS NOT THE SAME THING AS FILING A LAWSUIT. FILING AN INSURANCE CLAIM DOES NOT TOLL OR STOP THE STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS.

This time limit is legally binding, and, with few exceptions, lawsuits filed after this period are likely to be dismissed, regardless of their merit. The statute of limitations for Wrongful Death claims in North Carolina is even shorter.

The rationale behind these statutes is twofold: to ensure that claims are made while evidence is still fresh and to provide a degree of certainty for potential defendants.

As time passes, memories fade, witnesses become unavailable, and evidence can be lost, making it difficult to build a strong case.

For the defendant, these statutes prevent the indefinite threat of legal action.

The process of preparing a claim should not be rushed – Danny Glover Jr., NC Accident Attorney

It often involves gathering detailed evidence, obtaining medical records, consulting with experts, and fully understanding the extent of the injuries and their long-term implications.

This preparation is critical to accurately assess the claim’s value and to ensure that all relevant aspects are considered.

Moreover, waiting until the last minute to file a claim can be risky.

Unforeseen delays, such as difficulty in obtaining the necessary documentation or challenges in determining the appropriate party to sue, can result in missing the deadline.

Additionally, insurance companies may be less inclined to settle claims amicably if they know the statute of limitations is about to expire, as this reduces the claimant’s leverage.

Another important aspect to consider is the time needed for negotiations with insurance companies.

These discussions can be lengthy, and if they do not result in a satisfactory settlement, there must be enough time left to file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires.

It’s also worth noting that certain types of claims may have different statutes of limitations.

For example, claims against government entities often have additional procedural requirements.

Ignorance of these nuances can inadvertently lead to the forfeiture of one’s right to seek compensation.

Understanding and adhering to the statute of limitations is a crucial element of the claims process.

While it may seem that there is plenty of time to file a claim, starting the process promptly is essential.

This not only ensures adherence to legal deadlines but also allows for thorough preparation of the claim, enhancing the likelihood of a fair resolution.

Why you should call Danny Glover if you’ve been injured in an accident on the Outer Banks of North Carolina

Navigating the complexities of personal injury claims requires a careful and informed approach, especially when dealing with the unique challenges presented by accidents on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

As we have discussed, common misconceptions about these claims can lead to misunderstandings and potentially adverse outcomes for those who have suffered injuries.

Whether it’s underestimating the nuances of dealing with insurance companies, overlooking the strict timelines set by statutes of limitations, or misjudging the value of professional legal guidance, each misconception carries its own set of risks.

Understanding these complexities is vital, particularly when injuries result from the negligence of others.

Each case brings its own unique circumstances and deserves individual attention and consideration.

The process of claiming compensation for personal injuries is not only about the legal proceedings but also about ensuring that your rights and well-being are adequately protected and advocated for.

For those who find themselves a victim of drunk driving or a grossly negligent drivers, seeking an experienced OBX lawyer can make a significant difference.

If you’ve been injured due to no fault of your own, call Danny Glover at the Danny Glover Law Firm.

With a focus on addressing the individual needs of each case and providing informed legal counsel, the firm is equipped to help navigate the often turbulent waters of Outer Banks personal injury claims.

Remember, while the journey towards seeking justice and compensation can be intricate, you do not have to face it alone.

Guidance from a legal professional can provide clarity, support, and direction, helping to illuminate the path toward a fair resolution.

If you find yourself in need of such assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to Danny Glover at the Danny Glover Law Firm, where your case can receive the attention and dedication it deserves.

Helpful Information about OBX Accidents and Insurance Claims

• The link between Hit and Run accidents and Drunk Driving
• What you need to know about Contributory Negligence in North Carolina
• Accidents in Nags Head: Understanding the complexity of Insurance Claims
• Who is responsible for a Motorcycle Accident?
• Contributory Negligence in NC: Who has the Burden of Proof?
• If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need to know these things before filing a claim
• How much is your car accident claim worth?
• Have you been wrongfully hurt because of a DRUNK DRIVER?

Not only are you working through the aftermath of the accident itself, but you may also have to deal with insurance companies and legal proceedings.

If you’re not sure where to start, choosing a personal injury lawyer in Elizabeth City may seem a daunting task.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help!

In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips for choosing a car accident lawyer who will look out for your best interests.

Keep reading to learn more!

Protect Your Rights After Car Accidents

After a wreck, it’s important to seek legal help as soon as possible.

Personal injury attorneys will be able to advise you on your rights and help you navigate the legal process.

Lawyers who handle OBX accident cases

They can also negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf, so you can focus on recovering from the accident.

In Elizabeth City, there are a number of lawyers to choose from.

How do you decide which Personal Injury Lawyer is right for you?

Here are some tips:

Do Your Research

The best way to find a lawyer is by doing your research.

There are many reputable law firms in Elizabeth City NC, so take the time to read reviews and professional accolades.

It’s important to find a lawyer who is right for you – someone you feel comfortable with and can trust during the attorney client relationship.

Ask Around

If you know anyone who has been in a car accident, ask them for a recommendation of a law firm.

They may have used a lawyer in the past and be able to recommend a personal injury lawyer who is knowledgeable and experienced.

Get in Touch

Schedule a consultation so you can discuss your case and get to know the lawyer.

This is also an opportunity for them to assess whether they think they can help you.

Choose a Personal Injury Lawyer Who Has Substantial Experience with Car Accidents

Not every law firm regularly handle car accident cases.

Make sure the lawyer you choose has experience dealing with cases like yours.

No Such Thing as an “Accident”

Hiring a car accident lawyer is an important decision – be sure to choose someone who you feel confident in and who will fight for your rights.

The attorney client relationship is predicated on trust, transparency, and the willingness to help you through this challenging time.

What do lawyers mean when they call something a Personal Injury case?

A personal injury case is a type of legal issue that occurs when one person (the victim) suffers harm from an accident or injury, and someone else (the “tortfeasor”) might be legally responsible for damages.

In Elizabeth City and throughout Northeastern North Carolina, car wrecks, trucking accidents, bicycle accidents, and pedestrian injuries are common types of personal injury cases.

Unfortunately, so are wrongful death cases resulting from a car crash or motorcycle accident.

If you’ve been in a car accident, choosing a car accident lawyer who is experienced and knowledgeable about the law is essential.

You may be entitled to damages for all your injuries and those of a family member injured in the crash.

Insurance claims for the wreck may include things like:

• Medical Expenses
• Emergency Transport (Ambulance / Helicopter)
• Emergency Room Bills
• Costs of Surgery
• Neck Injuries
• Lost Wages
• Wrongful Death – Funeral Expenses and Compensation to the Family for Lost Wages

Do I need a lawyer for an accident case?

If you’ve been injured in a car wreck in Pasquotank County, you may be wondering if you need a lawyer.

The short answer is: It depends.

There are some cases where it makes sense to represent yourself and there are other cases where we think you definitely deserve legal advice that only a lawyer can provide.

If the insurance company is offering a settlement that you feel is fair and you don’t have any other complicating factors, then you might not need a lawyer.

What is Contributory Negligence?

On the other hand, if you are facing a long road to recovery with costly medical bills, then you will likely need legal representation to get the most compensation possible.

No matter what your situation is, we always recommend that you consult with a car accident lawyer from the Outer Banks to get their professional opinion on your case.

At the end of the day, the decision of whether or not to hire a lawyer is up to you.

But if you’ve been injured in a car accident, we think it’s always worth at least getting a free consultation today.

At the Danny Glover Law Firm, we like to begin working immediately on investigating the causes of the wreck to determine liability, understand your individual goals, and set a path towards the best manner in which to proceed.

When is the best time to hire an attorney?

Ideally, you should hire a lawyer as soon after the accident as possible.

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases in North Carolina

Attorneys like to collect evidence and witness statements while everything is still fresh.

It’s also important to note that most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case.

So, if you don’t hire a lawyer and don’t win your case, then you won’t have to pay legal fees.

What should I consider when choosing a lawyer?

There are a few things you should consider when choosing a car accident law firm:

Experience – How much experience does the lawyer have with car accident cases?

Reputation – What do other attorneys say about this lawyer?

Availability – Can this lawyer take on your case and how long will it take them to start working on it?

Costs – How much will it cost to hire this lawyer and will they work on a contingency basis?

What will the Law Firm need for the first visit?

When meeting with a lawyer for the first time, it’s important to bring as much information as possible.

This will help them get started on your case right away.

We like to review:

• A copy of the police report from the accident, if one is available
• Any medical records or bills related to the injury or injuries that you may have
• Your insurance information
• The contact information of any witnesses to the accident

After your initial consultation, your lawyer will likely ask you to sign a contingency fee agreement.

7 Steps to Take After an Accident

This is an agreement between you and the law firm that says how much they will be paid if they win your case.

It’s important to note that most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case.

If you don’t hire a lawyer and don’t win your case, then you won’t have to pay legal fees.

What questions should I ask during an initial consultation?

During your initial consultation with a potential car accident lawyer, we

What are the legal fees for accident cases in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, accident lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means that they only get paid if you win your case.

How long will it take to resolve my case?

It typically takes between 12 and 18 months to resolve a car injury case in North Carolina.

However, this can vary depending on the complexity of the case and how many parties are involved and if everyone involved is from the NC area or out-of-state.

If settlement cannot be negotiated and a personal injury lawsuit is required, that may extend how long it takes to resolve the dispute.

Can I just ask some questions and find out my legal rights?

Yes, you can absolutely ask some questions and find out your legal rights in North Carolina.

In Elizabeth City NC, a PI law firm will ordinarily offer free consultations to potential clients.

This is a good opportunity for you to ask some questions and get a feel for the lawyer’s experience and what they would recommend for your case.

Is it better to have an attorney or represent myself in a car accident case?

At the end of the day, the decision of whether or not to hire a law firm is up to you.

But if you’ve been injured in a car accident, we think it’s always worth at least getting a free consultation.

Your lawyer will be able to provide you with more information about your specific case and tell you what they think is the best course of action.

We believe you will be at a tremendous disadvantage if you try to handle the case yourself.

Insurance adjusters are not there to help you or do the right thing and offer fair compensation.

That’s true even if their insured, the party who caused the wreck, jumped out of the car a moment afterward, and said, “I’m sorry. It’s all my fault.”

They represent the at fault party.

If they can settle a claim for less than it’s worth, that is profitable for the insurance company. It’s even better if they can deny the claim and pay nothing.

If you have been injured in a car accident, please contact our law firm for a free consultation.

Our legal team lead by Danny Glover Jr. would be happy to discuss your case with you and answer any questions you may have.

What should I look for when hiring a car accident lawyer?

We think one of the most important things to look for when hiring a car accident law firm in Elizabeth City NC is experience.

You want to hire a lawyer who has successfully handled cases similar to yours in the past. . .in Elizabeth City NC.

It’s also important to find a lawyer who is available and can start working on your case right away.

Finally, you want to make sure you feel comfortable with the lawyer and feel like they are fighting for you.

Do all lawyers in Elizabeth City handle accident cases?

No, not all lawyers in Elizabeth City NC handle accident cases.

But we do, and we would be happy to discuss your case with you.

Call Danny Glover Jr now at: 252-299-5300

Is it a good idea to hire a local lawyer in Elizabeth City, North Carolina?

Yes, we think it’s a good idea to hire a local lawyer.

They will be familiar with the local court system, expert witnesses, and the preferred protocols in presenting a claim for damages.

What are some other things I should know about choosing a car accident lawyer?

Here are a few more things to keep in mind when choosing a car accident lawyer:

• Make sure you feel comfortable with the lawyer and that they are fighting for you
• Find a lawyer who has experience handling cases similar to yours
• Hire a local lawyer who is familiar with the Elizabeth City court system.

REQUEST A FREE CASE EVALUATION

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please contact us today for a free case evaluation.

We would be happy to discuss your case with you, get all the facts, and answer any questions you may have.

We help clients with:

• Motorcycle Accidents
• Bicycle Accidents
• Pedestrian Injuries

You can reach us at 252-299-5300 or by email at Danny@DannyGloverLawFirm.com

For more information about Danny Glover Jr. – Click Here

We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Thank you for reading! We hope this blog post was helpful in giving you some information.

I spend a lot of time researching injuries, their consequences, the impact of those injuries on other parts of the body, and the cause of those injuries – Danny Glover

However, sometimes my clients are injured in ways that are beyond my understanding, or they are injured so significantly that I cannot be sure of their prognosis or the likelihood of full of partial recovery.

In those cases I hire a nurse consultant or another doctor to help me understand the injuries, or what the future holds for my clients, or to simply help me speak the treating physician’s language so that the treating physician can provide the necessary reports or testimony to make sure that the responsible person or insurance company is held accountable.

MORE INFO: What are the maximum damages on an INJURY CLAIM

Sometimes I use nurse consultants. These nurses review the medical records and summarize them for me.

They also point out problematic issues that I need to address, such as medical record errors, or the lack of certain necessary tests, or the failure of the physicians to fully appreciate important aspects of the case.

Sometimes I send nurses to my client’s medical appointments to observe and/or communicate directly with the doctor, in the same way that worker’s compensation insurance companies send nurses. Nurses are often very valuable members of my legal team.

SEE MORE: What are damages in a wreck case?

In other cases I may actually hire doctors of the same specialty as my client’s treating physicians. While much more expensive than simply hiring nurses, it is frequently well worth the expenditure. In one case a few years ago, I was having problems communicating with my client’s doctor, and in the limited conversations I had with the doctor, I was having a hard time getting the doctor to understand the legalese necessary for him to help his patient and my client with his case.

As a result, the insurance company continued to deny the claim because I was unable to provide the magic forms and reports that the insurance company was requiring (which is code for the insurance company simply using any excuse possible to deny the claim). I hired an orthopedic doctor to consult with me.

That doctor reviewed all of my client’s medical records and films and then educated me – from Point A to Point Z – about how physicians would view the chain of medical events from the day of my client’s wreck until the present day. With that specific micro-medical education in hand, I was then able to effectively communicate with my client’s doctor to obtain the medical testimony necessary to force the insurance company to pay what it legally owed on the claim.

MORE INFO: No Such Thing as an ACCIDENT

So, when choosing an attorney to handle your injury case, make sure that you choose an attorney who not only knows the law, but also knows the medicine involved in your case, or the experts who can educate the lawyer about the medicine in your case.

Last month I began telling you about some very important things that you need to do (and NOT do) immediately at the scene of the wreck. They were:

• Stay calm and breathe! If you have been injured, do not move – call 911 (if possible) and wait for EMS and then go to the hospital.
• Once all people involved in the wreck are accounted for and that situation is stable, have someone gather all of the information possible at the scene, including the names, addresses, phone numbers and license plate numbers of any and all witnesses and other drivers involved in the wreck, and take photographs of everything. Do not rely on law enforcement to do this for you.
• Do not move any vehicles until law enforcement arrives.
• Do not admit fault.

Once you leave the scene, there are still some other important things that you need to do.

First, file all of your medical bills with your health insurance company. Even if the wreck was caused by someone else, your medical bills are your responsibility.

Non-payment or late payment of those medical bills will hurt your credit and lead to late fees, etc. If the wreck was not your fault, you may eventually recover a settlement that includes reimbursement for your medical bills, but injury settlements take time, and it is important that you utilize all available health insurance to pay the bills as soon as possible.

Some health insurance companies are entitled to repayment from your eventual settlement, and some are not.

An experienced injury attorney can assist you in figuring that out as part of your case.

Second, if you are injured, do not speak to any automobile insurance company until you have spoken to an experienced, local injury attorney.

Insurance companies will be trying to take your statement as soon possible, and they will typically then try to use that statement against you later to deny the claim or to try to lowball you on your settlement.

A good injury attorney can make sure that you do everything necessary to make sure that you eventually obtain a complete settlement according to the law and can help you avoid making mistakes that can cost you money.

SEE MORE: What To Do If You’ve Been In A Wreck

Third, if you were given a ticket, do not pay it off. Instead, speak to an experienced, local traffic attorney. Oftentimes an attorney can get your ticket reduced or dismissed and save you DMV points and possibly insurance premium increases.

Fourth, report the collision to your automobile insurance company – hopefully only after you have spoken to an attorney about your injuries or your ticket.

Here’s to hoping that you never need to use this advice!!