Car Accident FAQ
Table of Contents
Common Questions About Crashes
Car accidents happen every day across Minnesota. Distracted driving, traffic congestion and intoxicated driving are just a few of the risks that endanger the lives of everyone on the road.
If you become the unfortunate victim of a car accident, whether or not it was your fault, you deserve legal guidance on how to move forward. Contact our attorneys at Milavetz, Gallop & Milavetz, P.A., for answers. We can conduct a thorough investigation, handle dealings with the insurance companies and pursue compensation on your behalf. Our goal is to ease the stress and burden during this difficult time.
Below is some general information on frequently asked questions about car accidents.
I Was Just Injured In A Car Accident. What Should I Expect Next?
The hours and days that follow a car accident can be incredibly chaotic. Not only will you be dealing with the physical pain and trauma associated with the incident, but you will be handling an onslaught of phone calls from the parties involved. Health insurance and auto insurance representatives will likely begin pestering you, trying to get more information about the case and even requesting that you make a recorded statement. Don’t make any official statements until you have consulted with an attorney.
Should I Just Handle The Claim Myself?
Car accident claims can be highly complex. And the amount you end up receiving depends in large part on the quality of legal representation that you have. Just as the insurance companies have legal counsel, you, too, should enlist a trusted lawyer to protect your rights and look out for your interests. If you attempt to represent yourself and negotiate with the insurance company on your own, you may end up leaving significant sums of money on the table. You might even overlook valuable claims against third parties.
Because our lawyers handle these cases on a contingency fee basis — meaning you won’t have to pay us unless we recover compensation for you — you have nothing to lose (and everything to gain) by enlisting our help.
What Kinds Of Compensation Can I Pursue?
Typically, car accident victims can pursue coverage for medical bills and lost wages under their own no-fault insurance coverage, up to policy limits. Beyond that, you might seek compensation from the at-fault driver and other negligent parties for:
- Additional medical expenses and lost wages (past, present and future)
- Pain and suffering (past and future)
- Property damage
- Additional damages in fatal cases
- Punitive damages in limited circumstances
If you hire one of our experienced attorneys, we will make sure that you receive the maximum compensation possible. Your lawyer will discuss with you the immediate and continued health care costs associated with your injuries, any lost wages and any detrimental impact to your quality of life.
Am I Responsible For My Medical Bills While The Case Is In Progress?
One of the most overwhelming aspects of a car accident injury is the financial burden it brings. Even seemingly minor injuries can quickly rack up a mountain of medical bills. And, in all likelihood, those bills will come due before your case has been resolved.
Fortunately, there are options. Your no-fault insurance coverage can pay for those bills until you reach your policy limits. After that, your health insurance is second in priority, providing coverage while your claim is still pending. Our lawyers will work with you to find the right coverage for your situation.
How Long Does It Take To Resolve A Car Accident Case?
Each case is different, and the timeframe depends on countless factors, including:
- The extent of the injuries
- The number of parties involved
- The willingness of opposing parties (and insurance companies) to negotiate a reasonable settlement
- The complexity of the legal issues
- Whether the facts are in dispute
- Reimbursement issues claimed by your health insurer
We understand waiting months or even years for compensation can be frustrating. Our lawyers know how to keep cases moving, avoiding unnecessary delays and rebuffing time-wasting tactics.
Contact Us To Learn More About Your Car Accident Injury Claim
At Milavetz, Gallop & Milavetz, P.A., we have a proven record of results in representing injury victims. We can help make this challenging time easier for you. Set up your free, confidential consultation today by calling us at 763-560-0000 or contacting us online. Based in Brooklyn Center, we have additional offices in Coon Rapids, Edina, Minneapolis, Saint Paul and throughout the metro area.
