Mississippi Personal Injury Attorney Explains Accounting For Your Auto Accident

When vehicles collide, there is often an immediate bout of pandemonium. The first thought is generally to make sure everyone involved in the accident is safe. Modern protocol then tells us to immediately inform the authorities and allow them to sort out the details. After the accident, vehicles are towed and people either go home or to the hospital. What comes next is usually a lot of waiting.

Waiting is not your only option if you are the victim in an auto accident. There is no getting around the fact that you will have to wait for the legal process to run its course. In the meantime, you can do something that can prove to be extremely valuable: keep a journal.

Your journal should begin right after the accident. Start by writing down everything you remember about the accident. Think about what you saw, what went through your mind and what happened during the actual accident. Try to focus on as many details as possible, even when it comes to the colliding vehicle and its driver.

This is important because the passing of time may cause you to forget some things about the accident. It may just be a minor detail or two that you forget, but that minor detail could eventually play a major role in your case. This kind of written memory will allow you to accurately recreate the accident scene if you are ever asked to do so, particularly in a courtroom.

Continue on with the journal by recording everything that happens in the days after the accident. Make sure to record any time off work, any calls to a lawyer, or any bills you may have received as a result of the accident. Anything that might be remotely connected to the accident should be written in your journal.

Overall, keeping a journal will thoroughly prepare you if your case does go to court. It will also provide leverage if your case goes to mediation. Settlements could turn out to be much larger when the victim has detailed documentation of injuries, pain, suffering and bills that are noted down to the exact penny.

Your healing process should be a major part of your journal. If you wake up with a slight pain in the middle of the night, reach for your journal before you reach for an aspirin. Injuries are important in every auto accident case. They could make a big difference in the final payout. So document every little pain you feel. Those pains may not initially seem to be a direct result of the crash, but there are lingering effects you may not be privy to.

All of this will not only help with the legal process, but it will also help you with the healing process. Car accidents are a traumatic event that can affect people emotionally as well as physically. It is important to be sure you have a record of every bit of your suffering.

You do not need to be a professional writer to put together a quality journal. Just be precise and consistent. A judge is not going to be awarding a Pulitzer Prize, but a judge could award you a sizeable payout. Honest facts about everything that could be related to your auto accident can only strengthen your case.

Victims of car accidents can turn to the Mississippi Auto Accident Attorney at Barrett Law PLLC. Your suffering deserves compensation and our legal team can show you the best ways to get what you deserve. Our attorneys can help you build your case into a winner. Call us today for a free confidential consultation at (800) 707-9577.

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Mississippi Personal Injury Attorney Explains How There is No Such Thing as a Minor Rear End Collision

The initial image most people conjure up when talking about auto accidents is a mangled wreck of a vehicle. Metal is smashed, windows are shattered and all that’s left is a tow truck taking the car to its final resting place. The truth is that many auto accidents look far different from that image.  If fact, even minor auto accidents without much damage can inflict a great deal of pain.

Rear-end collisions are the most common kind of auto accident in the United States. A crumbled bumper and a sudden jolt may seem like the only effects. But some symptoms take a little more time to show themselves. Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in rear end collisions.  Specifically, whiplash does not always show immediate signs of injury. It is also referred to neck strain. Whiplash is the actual tearing of tendons in your neck. Sometimes, it takes several hours for the pain to set in. The effects of whiplash can be ongoing and its symptoms can include the following:

  • Numbness in neck area
  • Constant headaches
  • Dizziness and back pain
  • Lack of neck mobility

Other injuries that are the result of  a rear end collision could be more severe. That severity usually depends upon the speed of the driver at fault. More severe injuries are head injuries, nerve damage to the bag of legs, back sprains, and blunt trauma that comes from hitting the steering wheel or windshield. However minor they may seem at the time, injuries resulting from a rear end collision could turn out to be major issues.

The thing about rear end collisions is that they are preventable. And since they are preventable, someone is always at fault. More than half the time, it is usually a male’s fault. In a study conducted by the National Traffics Highway Safety Administration, the likelihood of involvement of young male drivers in rear-end striking crashes was 1.5 times greater than that of young female drivers. The reason for that is aggressive driving is more prevalent among male drivers.

However, the main cause of rear end collisions is not aggressive driving, but distracted driving. Talking on the phone and texting while driving are two forms of distracted driving. There are other forms as well. When you are hit in a rear end collision, it is pretty much a guarantee that the other driver is at fault. There are exceptions, such a person jamming on their brakes for no apparent reason. But that is often a failed defense.

Looking for a settlement in a rear- end collision comes with a bit of calculation. The first part of the settlement comes from the actual dollar amount of damage caused to the vehicle. The second part comes in the form of lost income. Time off work is factored in and your lost wages expand the settlement figure.  These are considered general damages, which consists mainly of pain and suffering. Add up all those figures and therein lies the amount of your rear end collision settlement.

If you are the victim of a rear end collision, you can look to the seasoned Mississippi Car Accident Attorney at Barrett Law PLLC for assistance. You might be deserving of more compensation than you realize. The help of one of our specialists can go a long way in getting you compensation for your pain and suffering. Experience will be on your side with a team of qualified attorneys that can lead you to legal success. Call us today for a free and confidential consultation at (800) 707-9577.

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Mississippi Car Accident Attorney Explains How Mississippi Is One of the Most Dangerous Places To Drive

Roadways all over the country can be dangerous. Negligent, distracted and aggressive drivers can present challenges to other drivers steering down any street or highway. Those challenges exist in every state, although the state of Mississippi presents more danger than any other place in the United States.  In fact, t has been a place where auto accident deaths have always ranked very high.

The state of Mississippi has historically received the unwanted distinction of being one of the most dangerous places to drive in all of America. In a 2012 study conducted by The Trust for America’s Health, Mississippi ranked as the No.1 most dangerous place to drive in all of the United States.  Specifically, Mississippi routinely leads the country in auto accident fatalities every year. Recent numbers have shown that there are an average of 26.7 auto accident deaths per 100,000 in Mississippi per year.  The lifetime medical costs that result from auto accident injuries have been reported at $7.15 million.

Part of the reason for such a high number of accidents has to do with the struggling economy in Mississippi. Not all cars on the road in Mississippi are equipped with the most optimum safety features necessary to protect drivers. However, there has been a reduction in auto accident fatalities since a mandatory seat belt law was introduced in 2006.

There are also plenty of hazards on the road such as high speed limits which reach as much as 75 mph. There are also a number of unlit and poorly-lit roads in Mississippi which makes driving at night rather difficult. Perhaps the most startling reason for the high number of auto accidents is that text messaging is still not illegal while driving in the state of Mississippi. Efforts have been made to attempt to rectify this problem, but to no avail.

Currently, 43 states have bans on texting and driving, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Mississippi is not among those 43 states. Mississippi does, however, prohibit texting and driving to those with learner’s permits or intermediate license holders.

The state of Mississippi also ranked very low in having established seat belt laws for all passengers in a vehicle. In a 2014 report released by the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, Mississippi was severely lacking in laws regarding the primary enforcement of front and rear seat belts. The state of Mississippi has been without laws in the following areas:

  • Rear primary enforcement seat belt law
  • Booster seat law
  • Six of the seven teen driving provisions
  • All-driver text messaging restrictions

 With some of the laws and driving conditions being so antiquated, there is the need for drivers to be more alert in the state of Mississippi. Passenger deaths are also unusually high in comparison to the rest of the country.

While not all auto accidents end in death, many cause injuries which can make for time out of work, extensive rehabilitation, and a great deal of pain and suffering. Those could all lead to a problematic future and are a direct result of having to combat such dangerous driving conditions in the state of Mississippi. Until the state steps into the 21st century and readjusts some of its laws, there is the grim reality that auto accidents will be a part of everyday life.

If you have been involved in any kind of auto accident, look to the Mississippi Car Accident Attorney at Barrett Law PLLC. Your wellbeing and future is too important to trust to just anyone. Our experienced legal team will provide you with top-notch representation so that you may receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. Call us today for a free and confidential consultation at (800) 707-9577.

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Devastating Knee Injuries Result from Car Crashes

There are many serious injuries that may result from a car accident, but the loss of mobility that comes from a knee injury is all-too-common.  Most people do not think about the impact that a knee absorbs every day until damage to the joint leads to an inability to carry out the most basic activities, such as taking your child to the park or driving to work.  When that harm is caused by the negligence of another driver, it is important to ensure that any settlement or award covers the lengthy recovery process and any future surgeries that may be necessary.

In a car accident, the impact forces of the crash may lead the driver or passenger’s knees to be thrust forward into the solid frame of the car, regardless of whether or not the airbags deployed.  Many different injuries may result from this violent action, including:

  • Fractured or broken bones – whether the bones of the knee or the surrounding areas, these injuries may require months of medical treatment and rehabilitation;
  • Hyperextension of the ligaments in the knee which leads to stretching, ripping, and tearing – a person who is twisted in the wreck may experience this type of harm.  There are two common types of ligament injury:
    • o   Damage to the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) – This is a very serious injury that causes the victim extreme pain and loss of mobility.  Surgery often is necessary with this type of injury and the person may never regain full use of the joint, even with intensive rehabilitation and physical therapy; and
    • o   Damage to the Posterior Collateral Ligament (PCL) – Connecting the tibia to the femur, this ligament at the back of the knee prevents the tibia from extending backwards too far.  Often, it is damaged when a person sitting in a vehicle with his knees bent impacts the dashboard.  A PCL injury is very painful and may lead to the collapse of the knee while the victim is walking, resulting in serious falls.
  • Ruptured tendons; and
  • Dislocation of the knee.

A victim of a car accident may be entitled to compensation for the harm that he suffered.  The types of economic losses that may be recovered include:

  • Medical expenses – These include the immediate costs of emergency medical treatment as well as the bills that come with long-term medical care and rehabilitation.  They should take into account the possibility of additional surgeries as the damaged knee joint deteriorates.  There also needs to be compensation for necessary equipment that must be purchased as a result of the accident.
  • Lost wages – A person may suffer from a loss of a paycheck as the result of time spent in recovery.  If the victim cannot return to the job that he held before the accident, then the settlement or jury award must reflect this changed circumstance, including the loss of reasonably anticipated future wages and benefits.
  • Miscellaneous costs – There are a myriad of additional costs that result from a severe crash, including alternative transportation costs and the need for professional help to assist the victim in doing things that he could have done himself prior to the crash.

In addition to these damages, a person who has suffered from extreme pain and the permanent alteration of his life brought about by a serious knee injury may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering.  These are considered non-economic damages and are intended to cover at least some of the emotional pain that results from a severe injury.  Many times, people do not realize the devastation that a severe crash may bring until they cannot play with their children or climb the stairs without being in agony.

The victim of a car accident who has endured a debilitating injury needs attorneys who will fight on his behalf.  The hardworking and experienced Mississippi Personal Injury Attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC have the skill and commitment to get you the best results possible.  To schedule a free initial consultation, call us at (800) 707-9577.

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Dangerous Intersections Lead to Devastating Crashes in Mississippi

An intersection is the point where two or more roads meet, converge, or cross each other.  These locations are particularly dangerous because traffic from many different directions is coming into a central point.  These intersections may be marked with yield or stop signs or there may be traffic lights.  In many locations, there is very limited signage that indicates that there are important reasons to drive carefully and pay attention.  Depending on  the intersection, as many as six roads may converge.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 40% of all traffic crashes across the country happen in an intersection.  In addition, 21% of fatal crashes happen at this dangerous place where roadways converge.

There was a fatal intersection crash in Fayette, Mississippi a few weeks ago.  A 21-year-old driver failed to yield at the intersection of Sunny Side Drive and Highway 61.  The young woman crossed into the path of a Ford F-150 traveling north  on Highway 61.  Her vehicle was impacted in a broadside collision.  The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.  The driver of the pick-up who hit her, an 18-year-old, had minor injuries, but declined medical attention at the scene.

Intersection accidents often involve broadside, also known as side impact, collisions where one vehicle impacts another along the side of the vehicle.  Although recent car models are equipped with side impact airbags, many older models are not.  The problem with this type of accident is that there is very little protection for the driver and passengers in the construction of the door frame.  This leads to wide-ranging traumatic injuries.  In addition, after the initial impact, the vehicle may be propelled into other vehicles or stationary objects bordering the roadway.

The NHTSA has studied the types of behaviors that often lead to intersection accidents, including:

  • While traveling through intersections, drivers may cause a crash by failing to pay attention to traffic signals, stop signs, and yields;
  • Drivers may misjudge the actions or anticipated behavior of other drivers;
  • Drivers who are making a left hand turn at an intersection with a traffic light or stop sign may turn in front of another vehicle because they do not accurately understand the speed of oncoming drivers or do not see them because of obstructed views in the intersection;
  • Distracted driving has a disproportionate effect on  24 years of age or younger;
  • Medical impairment or fatigue leads to many accidents for drivers between the ages of 25 to 54 years of age;
  • Drivers between the age of 25 and 54 are involved in accidents that result from aggressive driving, illegal actions, and distracted driving;
  • Drivers aged 55 years or older are involved in accidents caused by a failure to observe other vehicles entering the intersection or a failure to estimate the speed of other drivers converging on the intersection;
  • Female drivers are more likely to be distracted by things occurring within the vehicle, such as the cell phone, children, or even animals, or making mistakes about what other drivers are going to do as they approach the intersection; and
  • Male drivers are more likely to violate traffic laws in the intersection, drive aggressively, or fail to respond to the circumstances presented by the intersection.

Intersections pose a very unique and potentially dangerous set of circumstances where driver negligence can lead to life-altering crashes.  The most basic of mistakes can be critical.  It is important to have the right personal injury attorneys in order to get the damages award that victims deserve.

Many accidents that occur in an intersection involve serious injuries that require a long recovery period.  The experienced and hardworking attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC will fight to represent your interests and protect your legal rights in order to get you the compensation that you need to recover from the harm that you suffered.  We will evaluate your case during an initial consultation.  To schedule a first meeting, please call us at (800) 707-9577.  Our attorneys only receive a payment when we recover on your claims.

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GMC Recall Impacts More Than Three Millions Cars

Over the past few months, the story of how General Motors Co. (GM) mishandled the recall of more than 1.6 million vehicles that were manufactures with a faulty ignition switch has slowly emerged.  An additional 1.5 million vehicles recently were recalled as a result of defects in the brake parts, airbag wiring harnesses, and other vehicle components.  The faulty ignition switch defect has been linked to thirteen deaths.  Recently, the chief executive at GM, Mary Barra, acknowledged that the company did not manage the situation properly.

In a videotaped message to employees, Ms. Barra stated that something went wrong with the recall process and “terrible things happened.”  As a result of what occurred, GM announced that it is changing its investigation protocols and recall procedures.  It is believed that increased scrutiny over vehicle problems led to the new recall of 1.5 million vehicles.

The initial recall relating to the ignition switch problems is getting intense scrutiny because the problem with these vehicles has been known for a long time.  The recall impacts mainly older model cars, including the 2005 through 2007 Chevy Cobalt and the 2003 through 2007 Saturn Ion.  The questions of what was known and when it was discovered has led to the civil and criminal investigations, congressional hearings, and lawsuits based on the injuries that occurred as a result of the faulty ignition switches and GM’s failure to respond in the proper manner.

The problem with the ignition switch is that the switch could turn off unexpectedly, cutting power to the vehicle while it is traveling at varying rates of speed.  It is possible that the switch turns off because the weight of the key fob and any additional items is enough to pull it out of the “on” position.  Although the corrected switches are supposed to be available for replacement this month, April 2014, GM has advised drivers of recalled vehicles to eliminate all extra items on the key.  Because the recall affects older vehicles, many of them no longer are on the road, so there are fewer people currently impacted by the recall.  However, GM has been investigating 31 serious accidents, including 13 incidents that resulted in front-seat deaths.

The more recent recall affects luxury sedans, full-size vans, and crossover utility vehicles.  Some of the defects could lead to the side airbags failing to deploy during an accident. The problems in the Cadillac XTS include the wiring in the brake booster pump, which can overheat, leading to melting plastic materials in the vehicle and the possibility of a fire in the vehicle engine compartment.  Two dealer-owned XTS sedans were reported to have vehicle fires in the engine compartment.  However, GM has reported that it does not have any reports about accidents related to the recalls for the newer model vehicles.  Although most of the recalled vehicles were sold in the United States, there were some sold in Canada and Mexico.

The ignition switch problems have led to the filing of at least one class action lawsuit is a federal court in Texas, with other lawsuits expected to follow.

When car manufacturers fail to take the appropriate actions in responding to defects in the vehicles when they learn about them, innocent people get hurt.  The experienced and dedicated auto accident attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC will work with you to develop the best possible legal strategy and get you the compensation that you deserve as a result of the harm that was done to you.  To schedule an initial case evaluation, call us at (800) 707-9577.  We only receive a fee if we succeed on your behalf.

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Catastrophic Burn Injuries in Mississippi

Burns that are inflicted upon car accident victims can be devastating, as they typically result in serious and sometimes disfiguring injuries. In the event that you sustained burns arising from a Mississippi car accident, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you think that your injuries are minor, failing to obtain treatment may have severe consequences, including chronic pain, infection and permanent scarring.

Generally speaking, fires that erupt from vehicles occur more frequently than you think. According to national statistics, engines that overheat, leaking fuel tanks and tires that become overly worn account for thousands of burn related injuries across the U.S. As experienced Mississippi personal injury attorneys, we have also represented auto accident victims who were seriously burned due to defective and poorly designed car parts, such as its engine, transmission and brake systems. In other words, many car fires erupt as a result of faulty wiring and improperly designed fuel tanks that ignite during a collision.

In light of the above, it is important to understand why car fires start so that you can mitigate the risks should you be involved an accident. Most often, a significant amount of friction and heat are caused when a car is struck by another vehicle or object. When sparks start flying as a result of the collision, it is not surprising that fires erupt. Cars contain numerous flammable liquids as well as solids, including various interior parts of the vehicle (i.e. fabrics, etc.). To illustrate, when fuel, battery or brake fluid become overheated, they can cause explosions to occur that can engulf an entire car within minutes. Additionally, when the weather hits triple digits, the amount of excessive heat can also make car fires more likely.

Overall, the cause of related accidents can be extremely difficult to prove in a court of law, hence why it is important to work with an attorney that has previously handled these types of catastrophic cases. Generally speaking, there may be several reasons why a car fire started, which can present significant challenges for even the most seasoned personal injury attorney. That is why it is important to consult with a personal injury attorney who has the skills necessary to prove your case, no matter how difficult or complex.

If you or a loved one suffered burns in a Mississippi automobile accident, give us a call now to find out more about how we can help you obtain the compensation you deserve. We have the skills, experience and expertise necessary to prove your case, regardless of how challenging or complex. We look forward to providing you with superior legal representation.

 

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Pediatric Injuries Can Be Prevented in Mississippi Car Accidents

As an experienced Mississippi auto accident attorney, it is always devastating to hear about a child that has either been injured or killed in a car accident.  However, it is even more troubling to learn that the child was not properly secured in his or her car or booster seat at the time of an accident.  Surprisingly, thousands of people across the U.S. fail to check that their children are properly secured in their seats while driving.   As a result, numerous children suffer the consequences of parents who neglect to take a few extra minutes to ensure that their children are safe.  For two parents in Mississippi, this situation has become an unfortunately reality.

In Eastern Mississippi, five young children, including an 18-month year old, and an adult passenger were recently killed when their SUV veered off of a rural road and landed in a creek.  The parents of the children managed to survive the crash however, they were treated for water inhalation and hypothermia.  Accident investigators revealed that none of the children were wearing their seatbelts during the accident.  Despite the mother’s claim that the 18-month year old was properly secured in his child seat, rescuers did not find the child’s body in his seat while investigating the scene.  Although this tragedy has deeply devastated the children’s parents as well as the local community, there are several safety lessons that can be learned from this incident.   These are as follows:

  1. Always secure your child in his or her seat, regardless of the circumstances.  Meaning, most accidents occur close to home and as a result, it is not surprising that some people compromise their children’s safety simply because they do not expect to be involved in an accident.   In other words, the short distance of your trip should never influence you to neglect you and your children’s safety.  Always check that your children are properly secured at all times.   Whether you are traveling one mile or one thousand, taking the above step will save lives.
  2. Review your car seat manufacturer’s instructions.   Be sure to review all of the car seat’s instructions before installing the device.  By failing to take one single step, you are putting your children’s lives at risk.
  3. Do not allow your children to remove themselves from their car or booster seat.  Children often become cranky, especially during extended car trips.  Regardless of how much they fuss, do not remove them from their seats or allow them to remove themselves.  Explain to them how important their safety is while riding as a passenger in a car.
  4. Contact your local police or fire department for help.  Oftentimes, police officers and/or local fire departments are available to review whether your car seat was properly installed or to assist you during the installation process.  Give them a call to find out whether they can evaluate your car seat and make sure that it is safe.

If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident in Mississippi, contact our office today to find out more about our superior personal injury services.  Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case and advise you of all of your legal options.  Moreover, we will also take the time necessary to answer all of your questions and keep you well informed during the pendency of your case.

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How to Avoid Fatal Car Accidents in Mississippi

For over the past decade, there has been a noticeable decrease in the number of fatal car accidents across the State of Mississippi.  According to the National Traffic Safety Administration, in 2000, 941 people sustained fatal injuries in vehicle accidents across the State, whereas in 2010, only 641 were killed.  Overall, between 2009 (with 700 fatalities) and 2010, there has been an 8.4% decrease in the number of accidents involving death in Mississippi. While these numbers are promising, they still represent an excessively large amount of unnecessary and perhaps preventable accidents.   Otherwise stated, Mississippi continues to maintain its reputation as having some of the most dangerous roads in the country.

There are several reasons why an overwhelming number of fatal accidents continue to occur on a yearly basis in Mississippi. Specifically, the State is crisscrossed by various busy roads and interstate highways that are frequented by thousands of cars, trucks and motorcycles on a daily basis.  Hence, it is not surprising that the majority of fatal car accidents in Mississippi occur on roadway departures, which is a crash that occurs when a car crosses the edge or centerline of a roadway.  Regardless of the cause of a crash, there are certain things you can do to prevent accidents.  Although not every collision can be avoided, the following are some safety tips you should consider to maximize your safety while driving:

  1. Do not speed.  As simple as this may sound, speeding is one of the main reasons why accidents turn deadly in Mississippi.  As tempting as it may be, follow the speed limit, as it could mean the difference between life and death.
  2. Always maintain your car, vehicle or truck.  Many car accidents are caused by the failure of a driver to keep his or her vehicle in good repair.  For example, tire blowouts on trucks, which often result in fatal injuries, could have been avoided had the driver checked his or her tire pressure before departing.
  3. Do not drink and drive.  Do the smart thing and have someone else drive you home should you drink too much.  If you must drive, it is always a good idea to avoid drinking before getting behind the wheel or waiting a while to take off in the event you have had a few drinks.  Moreover, you can also call a taxi or take a bus to avoid the inherent risks associated with driving while impaired.
  4. Do not text and drive.   Driving while “distracticated” has become a serious issue across the U.S. and accounts for at least 25% of accidents nationwide.  This amounts to over 2,500 deaths and more than 250,000 injuries each year to drivers across the country.

For more information, contact us today to learn more about your legal options.  We will take the time necessary to investigate the facts of your case and keep you well informed during your case.  We look forward to hearing from you.

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Christmas Day Crash Kills Baldwyn Woman

A Christmas Day crash claimed the life of a Baldwyn woman, according to a news report. Amanda Autrey, 25, sustained life-threatening injuries around noon December 25, 2012. She was a passenger in a pickup-truck that hydroplaned while traveling along Mississippi 245, overturning near Shannon.

At 2:30 pm, Amanda Autrey was pronounced dead at North Mississippi Medical Center.

Timothy Autrey, driver of the pickup-truck, was ejected from the vehicle, sustaining minor injuries in the crash. Amanda Autrey, a passenger, was trapped inside the crashed vehicle. Neither Timothy Autrey, nor his wife, were wearing seatbelts when the accident occurred.

The crash remains under investigation by the Mississippi Highway Patrol.

Sadly, when you lose a loved one in an automobile accident, insurance claims adjustors knowingly intrude on your grief, counting on your vulnerability to bully you into settling an insurance claim immediately – before you’ve had the opportunity to discuss the matter with your attorney. They do this to usurp a wrongful death or personal injury claim that you may be entitled to which, in most cases, has a substantially larger award value than the settlement the insurance adjustor is offering you.

Before you sign-off on any insurance company paperwork, ask your attorney to review the documents. This would be a good time to discuss the alternative option of filing a wrongful death or personal injury claim seeking compensatory damages to cover funeral and burial expenses, medical costs, and lost income. Depending upon the circumstances of the automobile accident that took the live of your loved one, you may additionally wish to seek an award of punitive damages. Seeking damages is especially important in terms of future economic support if, for example, the decedent left children behind who depended upon his (or her) income for support.

If you don’t already have an attorney, several attorney referral services are available through your local bar association or online. It’s important to find an attorney who is both experienced and reputable, and specializes in wrongful death and personal injury law. Your attorney is an advocate who represents your interests, files a claim on your behalf, and brings you the compensation you deserve.

If you, or a loved one, have been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, make an appointment with one of our attorneys by calling (800) 707-9577.

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