If you have sustained significant injuries in an automobile accident, you may be seeking compensation for the expenses that you have incurred because of the accident. Many accident victims require extensive medical care to help them fully heal from their injuries. Additionally, their automobile and items within the vehicle may have to be replaced or repaired. Also, as victims recover from their injuries, they may be unable to work. Thus, they may seek to recover their lost wages.
Still, reimbursement for a person who has been injured in an automotive collision does not happen right away. There are multiple factors that influence the financial retribution associated with an auto accident. Here are a couple of them:
Who Is at Fault?
Generally, the motorist who caused the accident and their insurers are liable for accident-related expenses. Thus, if you are assigned fault in the accident in which you were injured, the other driver's insurer is not responsible for covering your expenses. If you have comprehensive insurance coverage, your insurance company may reimburse you for your expenses minus the associated deductible. However, if you only have liability coverage, you will likely have to cover your expenses out of pocket. The insurance company would only pay for the expenses of the other driver involved in the accident.
While you are still at the scene of the accident, a law enforcement officer will likely ask how the accident occurred. It is important to avoid stating that you caused the incident or are at fault. The officer will likely record the statements that you and the other parties involved in the accident make by writing notes. These notes, which are included in the incident report, help serve as evidence in your accident case.
If you are listed as the party at fault, it can be difficult to have the fault reassigned.
Were You the Driving for Work?
If you were operating your vehicle while at work, some of the expenses may be coverable by your employer's workers' comp insurance. Thus, when you discuss your case with your attorney, be sure to advise them of your working status at the time you were operating the vehicle.
Commutes to and from work are unlikely to be covered under workers' compensation insurance. However, driving while working is likely to be considered an on-the-job injury.
If you have been injured in an automotive accident, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney in your local area. Contact a local law firm, such as Grall Law Group, to learn more.
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