QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Personal Injury/Auto Accidents FAQs
- What should I do first?
- Should I take photographs?
- The insurance company wants me to provide medical records, a recorded statement or a release? What should I do?
- What is an accident report?
- North Carolina is an at-fault state. What is an “at-fault” driver?
- How do I pay my medical bills?
- How do I pay for vehicle repairs or replacement?
- How is the value of my case determined?
- When will I receive compensation?
What should I do first?
Your first concern is your health. Seek the advice of a medical professional who can help you heal and record your injuries.
Should I take photographs?
Yes, it is important to document injuries and property damage. You will need photos to prove your claims. Take pictures even though your insurance adjuster has probably done the same.
The insurance company wants me to provide medical records, a recorded statement or a release? What should I do?
Do not sign any insurance papers until you consult an attorney. Once you sign a release of claims, your case is over. Be wary of an insurance company that wants to settle before you have seen a doctor or while you are receiving treatment. Be careful-anything you say to an insurance adjuster can be used against you in valuing a claim. Contact Howard Stallings or call 1.800.822.4182 for your free consultation.
What is an accident report?
This report is prepared by an officer at the scene of the accident. It is used to officially document the circumstances of the accident and can be used in settling your claim. Be sure to read the accident report as it can answer many questions,
North Carolina is an at-fault state. What is an “at-fault” driver?
The at-fault driver is the one who caused the accident. The at-fault driver’s insurance company must pay for the damage to your car and for your personal injuries. If the at-fault driver has no insurance, then we can help you negotiate with your insurance company to pay your claim.
How do I pay my medical bills?
Use your health insurance to pay your medical bills. Unpaid bills affect your credit and reduce the amount of money you receive at final settlement. If you do not have health insurance, let us know… We can help by reviewing your options for other ways to pay for medical treatment.
How do I pay for vehicle repairs or replacement?
If you were not at-fault in the accident, then the at-fault driver’s insurance company will pay for your car repairs and a rental car while your car is in the shop. If your car is totaled (the repair costs are 75% or greater than the car’s value), you will be paid the total current retail value of your car. If you have collision coverage on your auto insurance policy it may also help cover the costs of auto repairs regardless of which driver was at fault. In any case, we can help determine what coverage you have and how it will best serve your needs.
How is the value of my case determined?
If you were not at-fault in the accident then, you are entitled to receive money from the at-fault driver’s insurance company for your injuries including medical bills, lost wages and expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and resulting disabilities and scars. Compensation will also include costs to repair or replace damaged property.
When will I receive compensation?
You will receive compensation for your claims when your case is resolved either through a settlement or after obtaining a judgment in Court. We can work with you to determine when the time is right either to settle your case or go to Court, and we will use our experience to maximize your compensation for your injuries. Contact Howard Stallings and let us put our experience to work for you.
