You can get the money you’re entitled to with the help of an attorney, regardless of the type of personal injury you sustained, such as an auto accident. It includes damages for property damage, pain and suffering, medical expenses, and more.
Insurance is the primary source of compensation
Using an accident attorney is an excellent way to protect your rights. In the event of a motor vehicle accident, your best bet is to get yourself and your family out of harm’s way as soon as possible. Whether a seasoned driver or a novice, you must prioritize your safety. Here are some pointers to remember.
A plethora of car insurance policies is available on the market. Depending on your insurer, you may not be entitled to a payout for a claim. It’s essential to shop around to get the best rate. For example, buying from a single insurer may be better than a series of insurers. It also pays to check the car insurance company’s financial statement for an accurate list of policyholders. Keeping receipts is a good idea if the insurer decides to raise the premiums. Keeping a copy of your car insurance card is also recommended.
Distracted driving behaviors
Whether you’re a teen driver, a parent, or someone in between, it’s essential to learn about distracted driving behaviors and their effects. These habits are not only dangerous but can also lead to severe accidents.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a few guidelines to help prevent distracted driving accidents. These include limiting the time drivers can use portable/aftermarket electronic devices while driving. The organization also runs several campaigns to inform motorists of the risks associated with distracted driving.
One of the more prevalent types of distracted driving is texting while driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, one in five drivers in a car accident was distracted at the time of the incident.
Other distracting driving behaviors include changing the radio, using a navigation system, reaching for objects, and using a cell phone. Some states have passed laws that ban the use of handheld devices while driving.
An accident attorney can help you learn more about distracted driving behaviors and their potential effects. They can also help you understand your legal rights and options after an accident.
Punitive damages
Generally, punitive damages are not awarded in personal injury cases. Instead, compensatory damages are awarded. Compensatory damages are designed to cover financial losses and emotional pain.
Punitive damages are awarded in the most extreme cases. Punitive damages are typically larger than compensatory damages. It is to punish the defendant and message that the behavior is unacceptable. The amount is typically ten times the amount of compensatory damages.
Punitive damages are awarded in situations where a party committed gross negligence. It includes recklessness or wanton misconduct. It may also be awarded when the defendant knows the actions were dangerous.
The plaintiff can also have pain and suffering in the number of compensatory damages. If the accident victim was severely injured, the award might include compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. If the victim was permanently disabled, the distinction might consist of a wheelchair and other equipment. In addition, if the victim was seriously burned, the prize may consist of skin grafts.
Subpoena phone records
Whether you’re pursuing a lawsuit or simply interested in getting to the bottom of what happened during a car accident, it’s essential to know how to subpoena phone records. These records can help prove that the driver was using their phone during the accident.
A subpoena is a legal document that orders the phone company to release records. The phone company will then comply with the subpoena. But before a subpoena can be issued, it must be issued in good faith. The reason for the subpoena is also essential. If the reason for the subpoena is not legitimate, the court can dismiss the evidence, and you will not receive the records.
Most phone companies have a separate section for subpoenas and search warrants. These sections handle higher volumes of documents.
You will need to subpoena the phone company to obtain cell phone records. It can be done by an attorney, by the police, or by the defendant’s insurance company.
