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How To Make Sure You Get The Best Settlement Possible After A Car Accident In Memphis?

Car accidents can change your life forever. The accident is simply the start of what may be a lengthy process of submitting an insurance claim, assessing culpability, and, most importantly, obtaining the closure required to move on with one's life.

If you've been injured in a car accident, you're probably dealing with a variety of physical, emotional, and financial issues. You may be unable to work due to an injury and unsure how you can pay for your mounting medical bills. You may feel helpless if you are unable to provide for your family as you once did. If you were hurt in a car accident caused by the negligence of another motorist, you may be entitled to compensation to cover your medical bills and other expenditures.

There are a few things you should do to make sure you get the best settlement possible. First and foremost, always consult with an experienced Memphis car accident lawyer who can help guide you through the process. They will be able to advise you on what steps to take, and more importantly, what not to do in order to give you the best chance at a successful outcome.

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What To Do If You're In A Car Accident

The aftermath of a car accident can be a confusing and frightening time. If you've been injured in a car accident, it's important to take the right steps to ensure that you get the best settlement possible. Here are some tips on what to do if you're in a car accident:

Get Medical Treatment

First and foremost, make sure you and your passengers are safe in your vehicle. Even if you don't think you need to be taken to the emergency department, make sure you get checked out by medical specialists. Also, if symptoms develop after you leave the accident scene, get medical attention. Know that if you don't treat some really hazardous disorders, they can have long-term consequences, including death, and some of them have delayed signs.

Gather Evidence From The Scene Of The Accident

The more information you have about the accident, the better equipped you will be to make strong arguments for your case later on. Ideally, you should gather information such as police reports, photographs of the damage to your vehicle or other property, eyewitness accounts of what happened, medical records related to your injuries, and more. This evidence will be invaluable in building a strong case for compensation.

Contact An Experienced Memphis Car Accident Lawyer As Soon As Possible

Contact reputable top accident and personal injury lawyers who have experience handling personal injury cases in your area. An experienced attorney will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help ensure that your rights are protected throughout the settlement process.

Do Not Give A Recorded Statement To The Other Driver’s Insurance Company

The insurance company will likely try to get you to give a recorded statement about the accident and your injuries. It is important to avoid doing this, as anything you say could be used against you later on. Instead, let your lawyer handle all communication with the insurance company on your behalf.

Do Not Admit Fault Or Sign Any Documents

Insurance companies will often try to get accident victims to sign away their rights by having them sign documents that release the company from liability. It is imperative that you do not sign anything without first consulting with an attorney.

Be Careful About What You Post On Social Media

Anything you post on social media after an accident can be used against you in court. For example, if you post photos of yourself engaging in activities that appear to contradict the severity of your injuries, the insurance company may use this as evidence that you are not as injured as you claim to be.

Keep Track Of All Expenses Related To The Accident

If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be facing a variety of medical and other expenses related to the accident. Be sure to keep careful records of all your expenses, as this will be important information for your lawyer when negotiating a settlement.

Be Patient And Allow Your Lawyer To Handle The Process

The insurance company will likely try to lowball you in their first offer, but it is important to be patient and allow your lawyer to negotiate on your behalf. With experienced legal representation, you stand a much better chance of getting the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes Of Car Accidents

Determining exactly what caused your car accident is a key component of your claim considering fault is so important. Some of the most common causes of car accidents in Memphis include:

  • Distracted driving
  • Driving under the influence
  • Drowsy driving or fatigued driver
  • Poor road design
  • Poorly managed road construction
  • Reckless or aggressive driving
  • Speeding
  • Traffic law violations
  • Vehicle defects

All the above actions are caused by human error, which is indicative of negligence in a car accident claim. If such negligence leads to you or someone you love is injured or killed, you have the right to take legal action.

Determining Car Accident Liability

When it comes to auto accident liability, Tennessee is a conventional fault state, which means you must submit any insurance and personal injury claims with the at-fault driver's carrier. To collect compensation, you must be able to prove who caused the accident if you choose to make a vehicle accident claim for damages. If the cause of the collision is unclear, your car accident lawyer can inspect the site and gather evidence to determine who is legally responsible for your losses.

When To File A Car Accident Claim In Memphis

The statute of limitations is a set of legislation that establishes the time limits for filing a lawsuit. Once the statute of limitations has expired, you are no longer able to seek compensation for injuries sustained in the accident.

In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for car accidents is one year from the date of the accident, which is the same as the statute of limitations for personal injuries. This means you must file your injury claim within one year of the accident or you will lose your right to compensation. However, some insurance carriers have even lower time limits for filing a claim, therefore we always advise you to get started as soon as possible after your accident.

What Damages Can You Collect For A Car Accident?

Damages can refer to both economic and non-economic injuries. That means that when pursuing a car accident lawsuit you can seek compensation for out-of-pocket costs, as well as emotional damages. A typical car accident settlement will include compensation for the following:

  • Medical bills (ambulance ride, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, etc.)
  • Damaged property
  • Lost income if you are forced to miss work or quit your job
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional damages

Contact An Experienced Memphis Car Accident Lawyer

As you can see, getting the best settlement possible after a car accident in Memphis can be a complex process. Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, an experienced top accident and personal injury attorney, however, can give yourself the best chance at a successful outcome. So don't wait – contact them today and get started on the path to justice!​