3herniated (neck): 2 buldges (mid-back) 3 buldges, 1 hernaition (low back). I live in new york and my no-fault coverage was cut off around June. I still have pain and I am still taking pain meds (percocet). I haven't been able to work due to the pain and depression that has set in since i've also rarely left my house since the accident. The lawyers tell me that i'm only entitled to the minimum settlement ($25,000) since both he and I have the minimum coverage on our automobiles. The accident has also left me without an atuomobile. My lawyers also will not do an assest check on the guy who crashed into me; one reason was because the guy could hide his assests once he knew there was a check being ran (total nonsense excuses). Am i wrong in thinking that my lawyers are lying to me (not that lawyers are known for telling the truth)? Is an assest check an absurd request for a 24 year old, who was in excellent shape and mind be4? more money would be nice, expenses is goal!
2007-12-30 15:27:40 · 5 answers · asked by Chitalian 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Contrary to popular belief, lawyers HAVE TO tell the truth. If they do not, there can be severe penalties. I think that the stereotype arises because lawyers represent opposing parties so it always sounds like somebody is lying, it is the nature of the court process to have two versions of a story get presented. So as a first suggestion, I respectfully suggest that you lose the bad attitude, but listen to your instincts and if you are not happy with your lawyer's opinion, get a second opinion from a different lawyer.
You also may qualify for benefits from the Social Security Administration if you are disabled. This process can take awhile, but can end up resulting in a hefty retroactive award dated back to the date you filed. There are lawyers who specifically handle these types of cases, usually on a contingency fee, so you should consult with a lawyer who handles Social Security law to find out if this is an option for you.
Here is an article called "How to Find Legal Help When You Can't Afford It" which has links to legal resources, including attorney referral services, in every state:
http://www.courtreference.com/court-reference-blog/2007/12/19/how-to-find-legal-help-when-you-cant-afford-it/
And I agree that in general what your lawyer has said sounds odd, because what about wage garnishment, liens on personal or real property, tax refund intercepts, et cetera. However, I can't give you legal advice because the answer is dependent on the laws of your state and the specific facts of your case.
You may be able to find asset information on your own at this link (such as property records):
http://publicrecords.onlinesearches.com/
Unfortunately, if the guy who crashed into you only had minimum insurance, there simply may be no assets available. However, I don't know how easy it is to hide assets when it is done just to avoid liability - laws are different in every state so you need specific legal information and legal assistance to answer your question.
2007-12-30 16:52:02 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You should have seen a doctor right after it happened. They could have given you a neck brace, and pain meds. Any car accident (head turned or not) can give you neck or back pains. If it's been two weeks, and it still hurts, I'd recommend seeing a doctor. Try taking some Advil, in the meantime, and use an ice pack on you neck. Maybe a Chiropractor would help. Hope you feel better soon.
2016-03-16 21:54:50 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You're not allowed to just do an "asset check." If your attorney files a lawsuit, the other party only has to disclose information that is reasonably calculated to lead to evidence regarding proof of your case - not ability to pay.
If you file a case in civil court and win, then they can attempt to locate assets, but even that is a crapshoot. If you don't believe your lawyer, then consult with a personal injury lawyer - they'll usually give a free consultation. Good luck. Namaste.
2007-12-30 15:39:23 · answer #3 · answered by browneyedgirl623 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
File a claim and prove that it still compensable by the contract of insurance.
2007-12-30 16:38:34 · answer #4 · answered by FRAGINAL, JTM 7 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Sue for more.
2007-12-30 15:37:00 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋