A successful claim for compensation begins in the immediate aftermath of a vehicle collision. So, it is important to know what to do and what not to do.
Even if you do not “feel” hurt, always go to the doctor. Many car crash victims have head injuries, and the brain often conceals its own injuries. That is why concussed athletes beg their coaches to put them back in the game.
Gather other evidence at the scene, as well. Take pictures and get the names and contact information of witnesses. Do not rely on police officers to collect this evidence for you.
Furthermore, do not tell the other driver, “I’m sorry,” even if you think the wreck was your fault. An apology could be construed as an admission of liability. Instead, say something like “How are you?” or “How can I Help?”

If the other driver has insurance, the other driver also has legal representation. Generally, insurance company lawyers care nothing about justice or fairness. They only care about the insurance company’s bottom line. So, they make every effort to reduce or deny compensation to the victim.
The only way to level this playing field is to team up with a car accident lawyer. Unless an attorney is in your corner, the insurance company might run roughshod over your legal and financial rights. A lawyer helps ensure that you obtain the money you need to put your life back together.

If liability is undisputed, insurance companies have a duty to settle claims within a few weeks. If that is the case, an attorney can usually resolve the matter with a simple letter. There is almost always at least some dispute in this area, however, and most claims proceed to the next level.
That next level involves filing court paperwork. This move pressures the insurance company to settle and also preserves the victim’s legal rights.
Only a handful of car wreck cases go to trial. The rest settle out of court. So, your attorney must be more than a bulldog litigator. Your lawyer must also have good negotiation skills.

Damages in a car wreck claim usually include compensation for economic losses, such as past and future medical bills and lost wages for time off work. They also include noneconomic losses, such as pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life.
To determine a fair amount of noneconomic losses, most car accident attorneys multiply the economic losses by two, three, or four, depending on the facts of the case.
Sometimes punitive damages are available, as well, though only in extreme cases. The jury can award such damages if there is clear and convincing evidence that the at-fault party intentionally disregarded a known risk.

Car accident victims have important legal rights. For a free consultation with an experienced Indianapolis personal injury attorney, contact Holland & Holland. Attorneys can connect victims with doctors, even if they have no insurance or money.