Car Accident Legal Questions

If you were not at fault, then you should retain counsel to sue the at fault driver. If the other driver is taking legal action against you, then turn the matter over to your insurance company to defend...It should be noted that even though the other side is taking legal action against you, you still are permitted to take legal action against them if they were at fault... Read More

Its impossible for anyone to competently answer such a question in an online blurb. If you have issues where you dont tust the recommendations or advice of your exisiting lawyer the time to change lawyers is BEFORE settlement occurs ans preferably before settlement discussions are underway. I would be concerned if the settlement value for a legitmate surgical case is set at $35,000.00 where there is a 1m policy. If you decide to change counsel at some point you can always contact our office at 813-243-9233 for a fee cosultation. ... Read More

You can ALWAYS consult with another attorney, for no cost. If you are this uncomfortable, it sounds like you should reach out to another attorney who will have better communication and be more attentive to your case. That being said, no attorney can guarantee what offer the insurance company is going to make, and has no way to actually make them increase it, other than through diligently working your case up, and having credibility with the insurance company. They should, however, explain with you the plusses and minuses of settlement versus litigation, and should be in contact with your doctors for their opinions on it. ... Read More

Jen, In Indiana, with some limited exceptions, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.  It sounds to me like you may have something more serious going on than just a soft tissue injury.  I would not be comfortable settling your case until you have been to a doctor and confirmed that the tingling and loss of arm strength is not something more serious, like a herniated cervical disk.  You only get one chance to settle your personal injury claim.  For example, if you were to accept the insurance company's current offer, and six months from now an MRI reveals that you need surgery, you can not go back to the insurance company and say you want more money to cover the cost of that surgery.  If you have questions about your claim, or would like to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney, please do not hesitate to contact me.  Consultations are free. Best, Chip... Read More

Hello Rafael, You are entitled to receive Fair Mkt. Value plus sales tax, not what you owe on the loan. Do what you can to negotiate the best amount for the car. If you have verified the offer on the car is reasonable and you do not have Gap insurance all you can do is work it out with the finance company. I'm sorry if that is the case. If you have been injured you may have other options to pursue.    ... Read More

You need to contact your insurance company immediately.  They should contact the attorney for the person suing you and should provide an attorney to handle the matter.  If you do not contact them and the time passes to file an Answer or response to the Complaint (20 days from date of service!), your insurance company can deny the claim and refuse to represent you and can refuse to pay any claim being made.  Best of luck. John W. Merting, EsquireGulf Breeze, Florida  32561... Read More

If you obtained a policy of insurance there is presuymably a declarations page that sets out all the coverages, what you paid for them and what they actually cover defined within the policy copy they send you. You may need to hire a a lawyer to review the contract and the issues and possibly sue to establish coverage. ... Read More

Its too soon to really answer the question of whether or not they have opened you up to liability. It is not uncommon for attorneys to file suit because the insurance company was not making good offers before. You would only be exposed to liability beyond your insurance coverage of the case went to trial and the jury rendered an excess verdict. The fact is, however, 99% of cases are settled before trial. Even if it went to trial and an excess verdict was rendered, it MAY actually be your insurance company who is liable for this, if they could and should have settled the case on your behalf (these are called "bad faith" cases). If the accident/injuries are severe, and you think that the damages may exceed your coverage limits, you may want to retain the services of a personal injury attorney, or one who practices the defense of personal injury cases, to represent you by walking you through the process and making sure your interests are protected. You would likely have to retain them on an hourly basis. ... Read More

School bus accidents are a lot like other motor vehicle accidents. If you were injured you will need medical care. Property damage can be handled under your automobile Policy has collision coverage. The school will have its own policy that can also cover. because school buses are generally operated by public school districts you should consult a lawyer who has some experience in handling these types of claims. Let us know if you need our assistance. ... Read More