Accident Update
I was involved in a car accident where the other driver t-boned me after running a red light, as noted in the police report. However, today I received a denial letter from their insurance claiming their driver isn’t at fault, stating that the driver insists their light was green. This contradicts the police report, which confirms that my light was green, and a witness also corroborated this.
I’m unsure how to proceed since I only have liability coverage. I live in Virginia and I’m considering taking legal action against the other driver, but I don’t know where to begin. I’ve suffered a concussion, and my son has some minor injuries. We also have around $5,000 in medical bills. To make matters worse, my car was towed, and since I couldn’t afford to retrieve it, the towing company auctioned it off. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
I’m really sorry to hear about your accident and the challenges you’re facing. Here are some steps you can consider taking:
Gather Evidence: Make sure you have copies of the police report, any witness statements, and medical records related to your injuries and your son’s injuries. Photos of the accident scene and your vehicle may also be helpful.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: Consulting with an attorney who specializes in personal injury and car accidents can be very beneficial. They can help you understand your rights, the laws in Virginia, and whether you have a case worth pursuing.
File a Claim Against the Other Driver: Even though their insurance denied your claim, you can still pursue a claim directly against the other driver for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. An attorney can help you with this process.
Documentation of Medical Bills: Keep all documentation related to your medical expenses and any ongoing treatment you might need for the concussion and your son’s injuries. This will be crucial for your case.
Consider Small Claims Court: If the amount you are looking to recover is below the limit for small claims court in Virginia, this could be a quicker and less expensive way to pursue the other driver for damages.
Obtain a Copy of Lawsuit Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the process of filing a lawsuit in Virginia. There are deadlines (statutes of limitations) for filing personal injury claims, so be aware of those.
Insurance Company Appeal: Although it may take time, you might also consider appealing the insurance company’s decision. Provide them with all evidence you have to support your case.
Stay Organized: Keep a detailed record of all communications related to the accident, medical treatments, and any interactions with insurance companies.
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, but taking it step by step and seeking professional advice can help you navigate this situation more effectively. Wishing you the best in your recovery and handling this matter.