Understanding Important Factors in the Evaluation of an Auto Accident Loss

The following is an overview of the important factors for one to consider when evaluating a personal injury or auto accident claim. The more you know, the better you can protect yourself.

Accident Data, Scene and Parties i¡Involved: It is critical to properly document the accident. Is there a question of fault? Is there a police report? If so, who was placed at fault? Are there witnesses that contradict the report? Make sure to obtain contact information on all witnesses. Additionally, take photos of the accident scene and the vehicles for later use, if needed. It is also critical to understand who is responsible and know who the driver, the owner of the vehicle was and whether the driver was in the course and scope of his or her employment or operating a commercial vehicle.

Medical Bills: Track and account for all of the medical billings for all medical treatment and procedures needed as a result of the accident. These can include hospital care, surgical care, rehabilitation, emergency care, doctor billings, chiropractor visits, physical therapist, prescriptions and more.

Length of Treatment and Types of Treatment: The length of your medical care, measured in days, weeks, months or years is an important factor. Additionally, cases vary significantly by the type of care needed. For example, a case where surgery is needed is different than a soft tissue chiropractic case. It is critical that you seek out and obtain the very best medical care with experienced doctors.

Specific Type of Injury: The type of injury will affect the value of the case. Do you have a broken back, a herniated disc in your neck or merely whiplash? Do you have a traumatic brain injury or a concussion? Is there a torn shoulder or knee? The type and severity of injury is very important in evaluating your case.

Future Medical Care: Does you need future medical care, if so how much, why and what is the projected costs.

Emotional Distress/Pain and Suffering: Emotional distress and pain and suffering can be one of the most devastating consequences of a car accident.

Permanent Injuries: Disfigurement, Impairment and Life Time Restrictions must be fully understood and documented when handling these types of cases.

Lost Income/Lost Earning Ability: Income that you have lost due to your injury is an expense that should be included.

Punitive Damages: Become relevant when the responsible driver has engaged in egregious behavior, such as drinking and driving or texting and driving.

Your Attorney: How long as your law firm been practicing this area of law? Does the attorney have the needed experience? Does the attorney have the needed financial resources to be able to stand up to the insurance company or responsible party?

Carabin Shaw has successfully represented well over 42,000 auto accident clients in the last 22 years.

Carabin Shaw Firm Attorneys have over 120 years of combined experience. A good number of our attorneys are Board Certified by the State Bar of Texas.

Call Carabin Shaw, we will speak with you for free, day or night.