What to Know When Filing a Car Accident Claim in Toledo

The negligence of another motorist can change your life permanently. A car accident can lead to devastating injuries and damages. But proving your eligibility for compensation can be challenging. Even if the at-fault driver was driving under the influence or texting while driving, establishing their fault is hard without the guidance and support of a Toledo car accident attorney. An experienced attorney can help you pursue reasonable compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and vehicle damage.

Why Hire an Attorney

The insurance company of the at-fault driver may cover damages if the official police report establishes the negligence of the other driver. Sometimes, your claim can become complicated if there is no police report or there are missing details. When this happens, the insurance company will deny your claim outright. Hiring an attorney will ensure the insurer will not take advantage of your situation and pay the compensation you deserve. A good attorney can determine the value of your claim and fight for you if the insurer questions the validity of your claim.

What Can Influence Your Compensation

Sometimes, the evidence demonstrates that you contributed to the accident. In this case, the amount of compensation you may secure will be deducted according to your percentage of fault. Your attorney can advise you of the factors that can influence your possible compensation including the following:

• Police report. Was the at-fault driver issued a ticket or arrested? What did the police officer think about who caused the accident?
• Medical care. Did you seek immediate medical care? Did you attend your follow-up appointments?
• Pre-existing injuries. Did the car accident exacerbate your pre-existing injuries? Did medical imaging and exams you took show further damage?
• Driving record. Do you or the other driver have a history of DUI, DWI, or reckless driving?
• Work attendance. How long have you been absent from work? Did your injuries diminish your capacity to work?
• Insurance policy limits. Is the policy coverage of the at-fault driver enough to cover all of your injury-related expenses?

Car accident claims offer economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical bills, car damage, lost wages, towing fees, and rental cars. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering you suffered because of the crash such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, difficulty focusing, and insomnia. A reliable car accident attorney will calculate all your damages to build your claim. When the insurance company makes a lowball settlement offer, your attorney will make a counteroffer until a settlement agreement is reached. Otherwise, your attorney can help you file a lawsuit and take your case to court.