Car Accident Lawyer
Any involvement car accident can leave you feeling stressed about what comes next. But nothing can prepare you for being at fault for an accident and the unknown of paying for damages. As a car accident lawyer from a firm like Greenspan & Greenspan P.C. can explain, the right car accident lawyer can give you guidance when the unthinkable happens. Read on to see what you can expect if you’re at fault for a car accident.
Don’t Admit Fault
It’s the second most given advice for car accidents. Admitting to an insurance adjuster that you were the reason a car accident occurred means your adjuster and your lawyer will have a harder time proving that you are not liable for damages that may have been caused as a result of the accident
While you may believe you were at fault, there may be partial blame between you and the other driver. You may have been speeding, but the other party might have run a red light. Let the insurance company investigate the crash first; they want to be less liable for a settlement too, so they’ll work hard to prove that you weren’t at fault.
No-Fault, Partial Fault, and Fault States
Each state has different laws regarding who is at fault for a car accident. Some states assume no-fault and each individual’s auto insurance will cover their losses. Others are fault states, with clear-cut definitions of liability – and if you caused the accident, you are completely liable. Still, other states are considered partial fault, putting each driver at a percentage of fault and therefore a percentage liable for damages incurred. Understanding your state laws may help you feel less nervous about any outcome after the investigation.
Compensation
Your insurance policy may save you a lot of money even if you’re found at fault for your accident. Depending on your policy, the insurance company will foot the bill and you won’t have to pay a dime. However, some settlements may be greater than what your policy covers, and the other driver could take you to court to cover that cost out of pocket.
If you have collision protection included in your policy, your insurance company will likely cover any repair or replacement you need, minus your deductible. But be aware that your car insurance rate could skyrocket when you renew your contract if you’re found at fault for an accident, meaning you could end up paying more over time.
Contacting a car insurance lawyer can help you determine if you were at fault and make sure the settlement you have to pay is fair for both parties involved. Reach out to a lawyer today to get some peace of mind.