I am very shaken up b/c the person who rear-ended me didn't survive. I went to hospital & was ok on all the x-rays but my neck and back are really sore which doctor said would take a few days. My car looks to be totaled but I haven't gotten an estimate yet, I am without a car now. I have never been in this situation before and I pray I never will again. I think my emotions are more tore up than my body hurts, I can't sleep at night. I just keep thinking about the accident and that someone lost their life. The other driver was going 3 times the speed limit and it was completely ruled their fault but I don't know what to do. Everyone is telling me something different and I would like help from someone who has been through something like this before. I called my insurance company and as soon as the police report comes out I will know who the other persons insurance was. Please help and be kind as I am having a real hard time with this. Thanks.
2007-08-08 02:45:46 · 7 answers · asked by Jay 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
It is good that you have notified your insurance company and have made efforts to secure a police report. At this point, continue to see your health care providers -- family doctor, orthopedic surgeon, chiropractor, massage therapist, and even a counselor or psychologist, and make sure that they make a good evaluation of your physical condition.
If the other driver has insurance, I am sure that the insurance carrier will be in touch with you. However, don't be in a hurry to reach a settlement. If the other driver does not have auto insurance, you may be covered by your own insurance under either uninsured or under insured motorist coverage.
You definitely have a claim against the other driver for the damage done to your car, the loss of use of your car, your medical bills, loss of wages, and depending on where you live, pain and suffering and loss of consortium. You may want to speak personally to other people who have been in accidents.
You have plenty of time to hire an attorney on a contingent fee basis. However, before you do, make sure that you continue to see the medical professionals about your condition. Personally, I would recommend you engage the services of a personal injury attorney, but I have a bias because I used to work for a personal injury law firm. I think they would do a good job representing you and that there would be more money in your pocket after all is said and done than if you decided to proceed on your own dealing with insurance adjusters.
2007-08-08 03:03:19 · answer #1 · answered by Mark 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
First thing to do is go and talk to somebody. Not a lawyer, but somebody who can help you get past the anxiety you're having. A therapist, a member of the clergy, a good friend or trusted family member. The important thing right now for you is to get your feelings under control. Remember, it was not your fault that the other driver died. There was nothing you could have done to prevent it. Be thankful that you survived, and try to move on with your life.
After that, you may need to speak with a lawyer, depending on your condition. There could be disc herniations or other injuries that won't show up on an X-ray, and pain that could take time to develop. Don't accept an offer from the other insurance company without getting legal advice.
2007-08-08 02:52:31 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
So rry to hear about it. Even if it wasn't your fault it is still hard. It will be hard for awhile. I have been rearended before I it is horrible of course nobody died so I can imagine how bad you must feel.
I think you should talk to a personal injury attorney. It is good that you have called your insurance but you will soon find out that they are only on their own side. Not much help to you.
An attorney can set things up for you,doctors,car ect. and make sure that you are taken care of much better than your insurance co. will do.
You find out fast when you need them that they just want your monthly payments and that's it. Good luck, it will take some time before you can sleep through the night.
2007-08-08 04:42:20 · answer #3 · answered by Marilyn T 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Keep treating for your injuries, you may want to see a psychologist to help you deal with the situation. Get a copy of the police report then seek the advise of an attorney. The attorney should help you get your vehicle repaired through insurance, most provide this help without charge as long as they are also helping with the injury claim. The emotional and psychological issue is also part of your injury therefore seeking professional help to deal with it is in your own best interest. A good attorney can guide you.
2007-08-08 02:53:46 · answer #4 · answered by Lori B 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you were hit from the rear, unless you were backing up or pulled in front of someone and immediately slammed on the brakes, you are not at fault. If you have reported it to your insurance company, let them handle it. As soon as the police report is finished make sure your insurance has a copy of that to help in their investigation. As far as the steps to take, your agent can help you there, including the information you will need about getting a rental car to use while yours is being fixed. As your doctor for a referral to someone to talk to about your post stress syndrome, it's very common after a situation such as yours. He will be able to refer to someone who can help.
2016-04-01 05:27:23 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Contact a good personal injury lawyer and let them take care of it.
2007-08-08 02:49:27 · answer #6 · answered by Mom of 2 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
What are you looking for here? A police report
takes 7-10 days, and you may have to pay for it. You have already been told what to do.....
its on you........
2007-08-08 04:46:04 · answer #7 · answered by DennistheMenace 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋