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TEN DO’S AND DON’TS WHEN YOU ARE INJURED IN A CAR ACCIDENT

7/21/2011

 
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1.   DO:  Allow medical professionals to treat you and, if necessary take you to the hospital.  It is very important to assess and treat your car accident injuries from the beginning.

2.   DON'T:  Speak directly with the insurance company.  It is the adjuster’s job to try to minimize any accident settlement.  They will try to use conversations against you to reduce the value of your personal injury claim.

3.   DO:  Follow up with all medical treatments and recommendations, including medications, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and other care as directed by your treating physicians.

4.   DON'T:  Make statements regarding the accident, especially comments that you may have contributed to the accident.  North Carolina is one of few states with a contributory negligence tort system.  If they can prove you had ANY amount of fault, you may recover NOTHING.

5.   DO:  Keep records, including accident reports, photographs of injuries and property damage, and medical records.  Provide all documentation to your personal injury attorney.

6.   DON'T:  Sign ANYTHING that is given to you by an insurance company without consulting with your personal injury attorney.  There is no reason to provide the insurer with any waiver or authorization.  

7.   DO:  Keep a daily journal of your injuries, including pain you experience on a regular basis or which occurs while conducting normal day-to-day activities.  If your injuries make it difficult or prevent you from keeping your home, preparing meals, or caring for your family, keep note of that as well.  The impact of the accident on your daily life will affect your final settlement.

8.   DON'T:  Miss any doctor’s appointments, treatments, prescription regimens or follow up care.  If you must miss an appointment, make sure to have a good reason, and have your doctor note that reason in your file.  Failing to keep appointments and follow through with treatment indicates to adjusters and juries alike that your injuries are less severe and your medical expenses are not reasonable.

9.   DO:  Use medical payments coverage if you have it.  It will help you pay your medical bills while your claims are pending.   It will not be repaid upon settlement and it will not impact your premiums.


10.  DON'T:  Be in a hurry to settle your case.  It takes time to properly prepare a personal injury claim.  Let your attorney do their job.  

    Author:

    Kelly Myers is an Attorney practicing in Cornelius (28031) and Lake Norman, North Carolina.  She handles  traffic and speeding tickets, divorce, and estate planning in Mecklenburg County, NC.  Contact the Law Office of Kelly Myers to speak with a Cornelius, NC lawyer regarding your legal needs.


    DISCLAIMER:
                The material and information contained on this blog is for informational purposes only and no representation is made as to its accuracy. This information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and does not constitute legal advice. Transmission or receipt of information contained in this site and any related communication does not create an attorney-client relationship. Any communication, via e-mail or otherwise, may not be secure and will not be treated as confidential or privileged. This information should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed attorney. 

    This information does not intend to solicit the business of anyone in any jurisdiction where this web site, its content, or the use thereof, may not be in compliance with any law or ethical rule. 

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