Frequently Asked Questions: Personal Injury
QUESTION: What are your fees for handling a personal injury claim?
ANSWER: Our fees are based upon a contingency fee basis of one-third, plus costs. This contingency fee increases in the event of suit, arbitration or appeal.
QUESTION: If I don't have automobile insurance, can I still have a personal injury claim?
ANSWER: Yes. A personal injury claim is filed against the person who caused the accident and that person's insurance company must pay. The fact that you were not covered by your own insurance policy at the time of the accident does not prevent you from making a claim.
QUESTION: What is medpay?
ANSWER: Medpay is short for medical payment coverage. Medical payment coverage is a benefit that you can add to your own auto insurance policy. It pays for your medical expenses in the event of an automobile accident.
QUESTION: What about my car damage?
ANSWER: The responsible person's insurance company should appraise and repair your vehicle's damage. However, if you have a difficult time working with the other person's insurance company, you do have the option of placing the claim for the automobile under your own insurance policy. Once your car has been repaired, your insurance company will place a claim for reimbursement with the responsible person's insurance company on your behalf.
QUESTION: What is my claim worth?
ANSWER: There are many aspects of a personal injury claim which will determine how much the claim will be worth at the time of settlement. For example: the severity of the injuries and the type of medical treatment received; whether the injuries are of a permanent nature; is there a disability; the need for future medical care; and the damage to the vehicles involved.
QUESTION: Can I include a claim for lost income?
ANSWER: Yes, you can. However, lost income must be clearly documented. The insurance companies require employers to provide proof of missed work and related wages. If you are self-employed, substantiation of the loss involves providing tax returns, contracts and other relevant financial records.
QUESTION: Can I make a lost wage claim if I used sick or leave time?
ANSWER: Yes, you are not required to use your benefits due to another's negligence. |
