Car Accident FAQs

If you were recently in a car accident and need help figuring out your next move, you’re in the right place. At Matt Hardin Law, our Murfreesboro Car Accident Attorneys are dedicated to helping victims like you not only take the right steps to get compensation for their accident-related expenses, but we’re also here to answer any questions you might have about the claims process.

We know that the time immediately after your accident can be confusing, uncertain, and even intimidating—especially if you’re dealing with insurance companies. Don’t be afraid to educate yourself on your rights as an auto accident victim, including your right to get full compensation. Check out these commonly asked questions to get more information and don’t hesitate to contact us by dialing by filling out a free online form. We’re here to help in any way we can.

Are there any things I should avoid, after a car accident?

Yes. While you may think it’s a cut and dry process to get compensation after a car accident that wasn’t your fault, there are actually a few things you may inadvertently do that can jeopardize your chances of receiving compensation. After the accident, make sure that you:

Don’t admit fault for the accident

Even if you think you may have been partially or fully responsible for causing the accident, it’s important to never admit fault to the other driver, witnesses, police, or the insurance company. Doing so can make it difficult to receive compensation, and in many cases, drivers who think they caused their accidents are later found to be free from fault or error.

Don’t sign any settlement offers

The insurance company may offer you an initial settlement offer shortly after the accident occurs. While the settlement may appear to be substantial, settlement offers that come in the days after an accident often fail to take into account your future expenses like medical bills and lost wages. Never signs a settlement offer without speaking to an attorney first.

Don’t delay getting medical attention

Whether you suffered serious injuries or you received just scratches and bruises, car accidents require immediate medical attention. Internal injuries are common and can get worse over time, and by the time you feel symptoms, your health may be in serious jeopardy. In addition, a medical report from your doctor can serve as valuable evidence for your claim.

Should I move my car to the side of the road after an accident?

If there are no serious or life-threatening injuries, then you are allowed to move your car to the side of the road per Tennessee state law. Moving your vehicle out of the road not only allows traffic to continue moving, but it also protects you and your passengers from being the victims of a second accident. However, if you or anyone else was seriously injured in the accident, it’s better to wait for emergency personnel to arrive and apply aid before moving your vehicle.

What can I get compensation for after an accident?

There are several things you can receive compensation for if you were involved in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, such as:

Medical bills

Going to the hospital to receive medical attention isn’t cheap. And if you’re hospitalized for an extended period of time or if you need surgery or any other type of specialized care, the costs can quickly skyrocket and you may be unable to afford your medical bills. Filing a car accident claim can help you get the money you need to pay for these expenses.

Lost paychecks

If you’re like many Tennesseeans, missing a single paycheck can have devastating consequences for your family. But many car accidents put victims out of work for weeks, months, or even years. Even if you’re lucky enough to have disability insurance, it may not be enough to replace your lost wages. A car accident claim can recover your lost paychecks for the length of time that you’re out of work.

Pain and suffering

It can be tough to put a dollar value on your mental and emotional distress after a car accident, but the consequences can be real and devastating to you and your family. Depression, anxiety, and a fear of driving or riding in cars are common results of serious car accidents, and those can take a toll on your quality of life. Filing a car accident claim is one way to help alleviate the stress of an accident and help you move forward from a psychological standpoint.

Reach out to the Murfreesboro Personal Injury Attorneys at Matt Hardin Law for the dedicated representation you deserve.  We can help. Call today!