We're here to help you navigate the complex legal process and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
Motor vehicle accidents can result in various types of injuries
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries from rear-end collisions, causing neck pain, stiffness, and headaches that may not appear until days after the accident.
Herniated discs, sprains, and spinal cord damage can result from MVAs, sometimes leading to chronic pain or permanent disability requiring long-term treatment.
Even without direct impact, the violent motion of a crash can cause traumatic brain injuries ranging from mild concussions to severe cognitive impairment.
The impact of a collision often results in broken ribs, arms, legs, or pelvic fractures, requiring surgery, rehabilitation, and extended recovery periods.
Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, or punctured lungs that may not be immediately apparent but are potentially life-threatening.
Many accident survivors experience PTSD, anxiety, depression, or driving phobias that require psychological treatment and impact daily functioning.
Understanding your rights and options after a collision
Serious accidents often require legal assistance, especially when there are injuries, disputed liability, or complex insurance issues.
Most states require an official police report for accidents with injuries or significant damage. This becomes crucial evidence.
Some injuries appear hours or days later. Proper documentation is essential for insurance claims or legal action.
Step-by-step guidance through the claims journey
Your health is the priority. Get examined even if you feel fine, as some injuries manifest later.
Take photos, gather witness information, and keep records of all accident-related expenses.
Report the accident to your insurer, but be cautious with statements until you consult an attorney.
An experienced MVA attorney can evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.
Your attorney will negotiate with insurance companies to seek fair compensation for your damages.
If a fair settlement is reached, your case concludes. If not, litigation may be necessary.
How to handle claims and communications with insurance companies
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident, even if you weren't at fault. Most policies require prompt notification.
Review your policy to understand what's covered (medical payments, rental car, etc.) and your deductible amounts.
Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly. Be factual but cautious in statements. Never admit fault or sign anything without review.
You have the right to choose your repair shop. Get multiple estimates if needed. Beware of insurers pushing specific shops.
Understanding the scope of the problem
More than 6 million motor vehicle accidents occur each year in the U.S.
Approximately 38,000 people die in motor vehicle accidents each year.
Over 2.35 million people are injured or disabled in motor vehicle accidents annually.
More than half of all fatal accidents involve only one vehicle.
Alcohol-impaired driving accounts for nearly 25% of all traffic-related deaths.
Motor vehicle accidents cost the U.S. economy approximately $242 billion annually.
What to expect during the healing process
Initial medical treatment, pain management, and documentation of injuries. Follow-up appointments scheduled.
Continued medical treatment, beginning of physical therapy if needed. Insurance claim process initiated.
Ongoing treatment and rehabilitation. Most soft tissue injuries show significant improvement during this period.
Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) typically reached for many injuries. Settlement negotiations often begin.
Long-term recovery for more serious injuries. Some cases may require surgery or extended rehabilitation.
Ongoing treatment for severe or permanent injuries. Complex cases may proceed to litigation during this period.
Understanding what you're entitled to after an accident
You have the right to seek appropriate medical care for your injuries, and in many cases, the at-fault party's insurance should cover these expenses.
If another driver was at fault, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
You have the right to consult with an attorney before providing statements to insurance companies or accepting settlement offers.
Insurance companies may offer quick settlements that don't fully cover your long-term needs. You have the right to reject these and negotiate for fair compensation.
If fair compensation cannot be reached through negotiation, you have the right to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations period.
Stay safe on the road with these defensive driving strategies
While not all accidents can be prevented, these defensive driving strategies can significantly reduce your risk:
Common questions about motor vehicle accidents
First, check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Move to a safe location if possible. Exchange information with the other driver(s), document the scene with photos, and report the accident to the police and your insurance company. Seek medical attention even if you don't think you're seriously injured.
The statute of limitations varies by state but is typically 2-3 years from the date of the accident for personal injury claims and 3-6 years for property damage claims. It's important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss important deadlines.
If the other driver is uninsured, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage. This is optional coverage in some states, so check your policy. You may also have the option to sue the driver directly, though collecting from an uninsured driver can be challenging.
Fault is determined based on evidence from the accident, including police reports, witness statements, photos, traffic laws, and sometimes accident reconstruction experts. States follow different systems—some use "comparative negligence" where each party can be assigned a percentage of fault, while others use "contributory negligence" where any fault bars recovery.
The timeline varies widely based on the complexity of the case, severity of injuries, and whether fault is disputed. Simple claims might settle in a few weeks, while complex cases with serious injuries can take months or even years, especially if litigation is involved.