Navigating Your First Car Accident: What to Expect After Being Hit by an At-Fault Driver
Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming, especially for first-time victims. If you’ve found yourself in this situation, you might have many questions about what happens next, especially after being struck by an at-fault driver. Here’s a simplified breakdown of your journey post-accident, which we’ll cover like a conversation with a friend.
First Steps After the Accident
So, here you are: you were hit by a driver who ran a red light, and the airbags deployed. Thankfully, you and your son were wearing seatbelts, and he was safely secured in his car seat. The presence of a dash cam and a witness will be invaluable in substantiating your account of the incident.
After the crash, it’s great that you sought medical attention to assess any injuries, especially since you reported sprained wrists and, unfortunately, your son has a sprained back. Always prioritize health and safety.
Understanding the Insurance Process
Now that the dust has settled a bit, you may be wondering what to expect in terms of insurance claims. Here’s how the process typically works:
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Assessment of Your Vehicle: The insurance provider will determine whether your car is repairable or totaled. If it’s deemed a total loss, they will offer you the market value of your car, not necessarily what you owe on the loan.
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Rental Car Coverage: If your vehicle is not drivable, you may also be entitled to a rental car covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance while you’re in the process of filing your claim.
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Warranty Considerations: Given that you purchased an extended warranty for your vehicle, make sure to mention this when discussing compensation. Often warranties can influence repair reimbursements, so it’s wise to keep this in mind.
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Medical Bills: You indicated you were advised to contact the at-fault driver’s insurance regarding your medical expenses. This means that they will take care of the medical bills upfront, which will help ease the financial burden during your recovery process.
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Lost Wages: If you missed work due to the accident, those lost wages may also be compensated. Be sure to document the time missed and any relevant pay stubs.
Seeking a Fair Settlement
While it’s understandable that you’re hesitant to engage a lawyer, especially if you feel your injuries are minor
