The post The Road to Recovery: What to Expect in Car Crash Injury Litigation appeared first on Sandel Law Firm.
]]>The aftermath of a car crash can be a daunting time. As victims grapple with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain, they may decide to pursue legal action to recover damages. The litigation journey, however, may seem like a labyrinth to those unfamiliar with the legal realm. This is where Sandel Law Firm steps in, shedding light on the path to justice and recovery. This post navigates through the intricacies of injury litigation as a result of a car crash in the state of Ohio, helping you understand what to expect on the road to recovery.
1. Initial Consultation and Attorney Selection
The first step on the road to recovery begins with selecting an attorney that truly fits your needs. Initial consultations provide an opportunity to discuss your case, understand its merits, and choose an attorney who can effectively champion your cause. At Sandel Law Firm, we offer free consultations to guide you through the legal maze and provide a blueprint for the journey ahead. Other law firms can say that they understand how insurance companies operate, but few can say that they have attorneys who have worked inside an insurance company. We are proud of our slogan: “Insider Knowledge. Outstanding Results.”
2. Investigation and Gathering Evidence
Thorough investigation and evidence gathering are the bedrock of a strong case. This phase includes collecting medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and any other pertinent information. Photographic evidence can also be integral in painting a clear picture of the incident and its repercussions.
Pro Tip: Stay off social media if you were in a recent car crash! Read this blog post of ours: The Dangers of Using Social Media After an Accident
3. Filing A Claim
Once armed with sufficient evidence, your attorney will file a claim against the at-fault party. They will report the damages incurred, the medical treatment sought and any ongoing treatment that is happening as a result of the crash.
4. Discovery Phase
The discovery phase is a critical period where both sides exchange information through interrogatories, document requests, and depositions. This phase may unveil additional evidence or insights that could influence the trajectory of the case.
5. Settlement Negotiations
Many car crash injury cases find resolution through settlement negotiations before reaching trial. Your attorney and the insurance adjuster for the at-fault party will negotiate a fair compensation amount. It’s crucial to have a seasoned attorney who can adeptly navigate these negotiations to achieve a favorable outcome.
6. Trial
If a settlement isn’t reached, the case can proceed to mediation or even to trial. Trials in car crash litigation can last anywhere from a day to several weeks. Your attorney will present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue your case before a judge or jury. The objective is to prove the t-fault party’s liability and the extent of your damages to secure a favorable judgment.
7. Receiving Compensation
The compensation awarded will cater to medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages incurred due to the accident. This compensation aims to alleviate the financial burden and aid in the healing process, marking a significant milestone on the road to recovery.
8. Continued Support
At Sandel Law Firm, our support extends beyond the courtroom. We aim to ensure that our clients are on a solid path to recovery, equipped with the necessary resources and guidance.
Wrapping Up
Working and settling an injury case can be a demanding process with legal hurdles and emotional turmoil. Having a skilled and compassionate attorney from the Sandel Law Firm by your side can make the process less daunting, allowing you to focus on healing while we fight for the justice you deserve.
Reach out to Sandel Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’re here to provide the legal support you need, illuminating the road to recovery with expertise and empathy.
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]]>The post Uninsured Motorist Coverage: What it is and why you might need it. appeared first on Sandel Law Firm.
]]>Technically, UM coverage is UMBI coverage (Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury) for the injury claim. There is also UMPD coverage (Uninsured Motorist Property Damage) for the vehicle damage, which is separate but unnecessary if you have collision coverage on your vehicle. Finally, there is UIM coverage or UIMBI coverage (Underinsured Motorist coverage), which will cover an injury claim that is worth more than the at fault person’s insurance.
When you’re injured in Ohio due to another driver’s negligence, whether it’s because they were texting, driving under the influence, or just not paying attention, the law affirms your right to seek compensation. This encompasses everything from injuries, property damage, and in some severe cases, ongoing rehabilitation costs and lost future earnings.
Under ideal circumstances, this compensation would come smoothly from the at-fault party’s insurance. But, as many of our clients have discovered, we don’t always live in an ideal world.
Enter the role of Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage. Think of it as your financial bodyguard. When the negligent party has no insurance (or very minimal coverage), UM Coverage takes the reins. It’s a segment of your car insurance policy, often overshadowed by the other coverage types but equally significant. This coverage provides a financial reprieve, covering medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and in some situations, even emotional distress.
Let’s paint a clearer picture with some real-life scenarios:
While Ohio mandates every driver to have a minimum liability coverage, the law is silent on UM coverage. Go beyond the basic requirement. Protect not just your vehicle, but your financial future, your peace of mind.
Life is unpredictable. While we can’t always prevent mishaps, we can prepare for their aftermath. Review your insurance policies, be aware of what you’re covered for, and always consider the benefits of adding uninsured motorist coverage.
If ever you find yourself in a situation needing guidance or representation in a personal injury case, remember that the experienced team at Sandel Law Firm stands ready to assist. We’re here to navigate Ohio’s intricate legal maze alongside you, ensuring justice is served and your peace of mind is restored.
Stay safe on those roads, Ohio. Your well-being is worth every precaution.
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]]>The post Back to School Driving Tips: Ensuring Safety and Avoiding Accidents appeared first on Sandel Law Firm.
]]>1. Slow Down in School Zones
One of the most important Back to School driving tips is to reduce your speed in school zones. School zones have lower speed limits for a reason – they’re designed to protect young pedestrians and students. Obeying these speed limits not only prevents accidents but also reduces the severity of injuries should an accident occur.
2. Be Mindful of School Buses
School buses play a crucial role in transporting students to and from school. Always stop for school buses that are picking up or dropping off students. This rule applies regardless of whether you’re on the same side of the road or approaching from the opposite direction. Failing to stop for a school bus is not only dangerous but also illegal.
3. Eliminate Distractions
Distracted driving is a significant contributor to accidents on the road. Whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio, distractions take your attention away from the road and can lead to devastating consequences. Prioritize driving with your full attention, especially in school zones and areas with high pedestrian activity.
4. Watch for Pedestrians
As schools reopen, the sidewalks will be filled with children and parents walking to school. Always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, especially at crosswalks. Keep an eye out for children who might dart out unexpectedly, and avoid passing other vehicles that have stopped at crosswalks.
5. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
To avoid the rush and potential frustration of heavy traffic around schools, plan your route ahead of time. Use navigation apps to find alternate routes or to check real-time traffic updates. By leaving early and choosing less congested routes, you can reduce the risk of rushing and making hasty decisions on the road.
6. Follow Crossing Guard Instructions
Crossing guards are present to ensure the safe crossing of students and pedestrians. Always follow their instructions without hesitation. If a crossing guard is present, stop and wait until they signal you to proceed. Their guidance helps maintain order and safety at busy intersections.
7. New Drivers: Gain Confidence and Experience
For new drivers, Back to School season can be a unique challenge. The increased traffic and presence of pedestrians can be overwhelming. If you’re a new driver, consider taking additional driving lessons or practicing with a more experienced driver to gain confidence and experience before the school year begins.
8. Stay Patient and Calm
Back to School season can bring about heightened stress due to increased traffic and tight schedules. However, it’s essential to remain patient and calm while driving. Aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, honking, or weaving in and out of traffic can lead to accidents and personal injuries.
As the Back to School season kicks off, following these driving tips can significantly contribute to road safety and prevent accidents. At Sandel Law Firm, we are dedicated to promoting safety on the road and providing legal assistance to those affected by personal injuries. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, our experienced team is here to help. Remember, responsible driving not only protects you but also safeguards the lives of students and pedestrians during this bustling time of year. Stay safe and drive responsibly!
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]]>The post How Do I Know if I Need a Car Accident Attorney? A Comprehensive Guide by Sandel Law Firm appeared first on Sandel Law Firm.
]]>If you’re still wondering, “Do I need a car accident lawyer?” consider the factors discussed in this guide. Seeking legal representation from an experienced car accident lawyer at Sandel Law Firm can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. From navigating complex legal procedures to fighting for fair compensation, a skilled attorney can be your greatest asset during this challenging time. Remember, we are here to protect your rights and help you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Get Strong…Sandel Strong. Insider Knowledge, Outstanding Results.
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]]>The post The Dangers of Using Social Media After an Accident appeared first on Sandel Law Firm.
]]>The aftermath of a car accident is undoubtedly a stressful and confusing time. Not only do you have to navigate insurance companies, medical bills, and car repair costs, but you also need to be cautious about your online presence.
While social media is a fantastic tool for staying connected, it can also pose significant risks if not used responsibly after a car accident. Sharing details about your accident on social media can have serious implications for your legal case, insurance claims, and personal privacy.
Fortunately, there are professionals like Sandel Law Firm who understand the potential dangers of social media use after a car accident. We can provide valuable advice on how to protect yourself and your legal rights.
What are the Dangers of Posting About Your Accident on Social Media?
To begin with, car accident victims must exercise caution when posting on social media in the aftermath of their accident. Photos and videos shared on social media can misrepresent the severity of your injuries, potentially impacting your chances of receiving fair compensation. It’s crucial to avoid posting anything that contradicts your claims and to be mindful of your privacy settings.
Keeping your case private is of utmost importance. It’s best to refrain from posting any information about the accident on social media and ensure that your friends and family don’t share any details either. By maintaining privacy, you can avoid legal issues and safeguard the outcome of your case.
Privacy is Vital for Your Case
There are specific activities you should avoid on social media following a car accident. These include posting pictures or videos of the accident, updating your injuries, making jokes about the accident, sharing updates about your recovery progress, accepting friend requests from unknown individuals, being careless with your privacy settings, and posting pictures or videos of yourself engaging in questionable activities. By steering clear of these actions, you protect yourself from potential negative consequences in court.
Social Media Can Be Used Against You
It’s essential to understand how social media can be used against you. Insurance companies and opposing lawyers may search your social media activity to challenge your claims or undermine the severity of your injuries. They may use your posts as evidence to minimize your injuries, question the cause of your injuries, or even argue that you had pre-existing conditions.
By being cautious about what you post online, you can protect your case.
Remember that social media privacy settings are not foolproof. Recent court cases have shown that even posts behind privacy walls can be accessed if they are deemed relevant to the case. It’s crucial to assume that nothing is entirely private on social media and act accordingly.
To ensure safe social media use after a car accident, follow these tips: refrain from discussing accident details online, be mindful of your comments and content on others’ pages, avoid posting anything questionable or suspicious, be cautious about what you “like,” avoid accepting friend requests from strangers, review and adjust your privacy settings regularly, avoid deleting posts already made, keep case-related discussions within your legal team, and consult with a Halifax injury lawyer before posting anything regarding your accident.
Social media is a powerful tool, but it can become perilous when used carelessly after a car accident. By following these guidelines, you can protect yourself from potential financial and emotional consequences in the future.
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]]>The post The Dangers of Driving with Minimum State Coverage appeared first on Sandel Law Firm.
]]>Accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere, and at any time, no matter how careful you are on the road. But what if the worst happens, and you’re involved in an accident, but you don’t have enough insurance coverage to pay for the damages and injuries? This is a position no one wants to be in, but it can happen, and it’s crucial to understand the consequences of being underinsured. And yes, state minimum coverage can be considered “underinsured”.
Being underinsured can have significant financial and legal implications. If you don’t have enough coverage to pay for damages and injuries resulting from an accident, you could be held personally responsible for those costs. And if you can’t pay, you could be forced to sell assets, face wage garnishment, or even bankruptcy.
Another potential legal issue is the possibility of facing a lawsuit if you’re found to be at fault for an accident. In some states, if you’re found to be at fault for an accident and don’t have enough insurance coverage to pay for damages and injuries, you could be sued, and your wages could be garnished until the debt is paid.
To avoid the financial and legal consequences of being underinsured, it’s crucial to understand how much insurance coverage you need. Most states require drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage limits, but those limits may not be enough to cover significant damages and injuries resulting from an accident.
Understandably, many people believe that minimum coverage is sufficient to cover a typical accident. However, if you’re involved in a serious accident involving multiple vehicles or multiple injuries, the minimum coverage limits may not be enough to cover all the expenses.
It’s crucial to evaluate your insurance coverage regularly to make sure you have enough coverage to protect yourself and your assets in the event of an accident. If you’re not sure how to evaluate your coverage levels or need help determining your coverage needs, it’s best to speak with a knowledgeable insurance agent and get expert advice.
In conclusion, if you’re involved in an accident and don’t have enough insurance coverage to pay for damages and injuries, you could be facing significant financial and legal consequences. Taking the time to understand your coverage needs and evaluating your insurance policy regularly can help protect you from the risks of being underinsured. It’s wiser to pay a little more for a higher coverage limit than risk financial ruin in the event of a serious accident.
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]]>The post The Dangers of Distracted Driving appeared first on Sandel Law Firm.
]]>The Dangers of Distracted Driving
The dangers of distracted driving cannot be overstated. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021 alone. That’s 8.2% of all fatal crashes that year. Additionally, the NHTSA reports that 1.3 million people were injured in crashes involving distracted driving in 2019.
One of the reasons why distracted driving is so dangerous is that it reduces a driver’s reaction time. When you’re distracted, you may not see or react to hazards in time to avoid a collision. This can result in serious injuries or fatalities, not only for you but for other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians on the road.
Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving
The good news is that there are steps you can take to avoid distracted driving. Here are some tips:
Conclusion
Distracted driving is a serious problem that can lead to accidents, injuries, and fatalities. By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of becoming a distracted driver. Remember, when you’re behind the wheel, your focus should be solely on driving. Avoid distractions and stay safe on the road.
If you have been in an accident, please contact Sandel Law today.
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]]>The post What is Medical Payments Coverage? appeared first on Sandel Law Firm.
]]>Medical payments coverage, also known as “med pay,” is a type of auto insurance coverage that pays for medical expenses for you and your passengers if you are injured in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. It covers medical bills, hospitalization, and funeral expenses if necessary.
Is medical payments coverage required by law?
No, medical payments coverage is not required by law in most states. However, it is offered by many insurance companies as an optional coverage.
How much does medical payments coverage cost?
The cost of medical payments coverage varies depending on the insurance company and the amount of coverage you choose. Typically, it is a relatively inexpensive coverage option compared to other types of auto insurance coverage.
How does medical payments coverage differ from personal injury protection (PIP) coverage?
Both medical payments coverage and personal injury protection (PIP) coverage pay for medical expenses resulting from an auto accident. However, PIP coverage may also cover lost wages and other expenses related to the accident, while medical payments coverage only covers medical expenses.
Does medical payments coverage apply to everyone in my vehicle?
Yes, medical payments coverage typically applies to all passengers in your vehicle at the time of the accident, regardless of who is at fault.
Do I need medical payments coverage if I have health insurance?
It depends on your health insurance policy. While health insurance may cover medical expenses resulting from an auto accident, it may not cover all expenses, and you may be responsible for deductibles, co-pays, and other out-of-pocket expenses. Medical payments coverage can help cover these costs and provide additional financial protection.
Can I use medical payments coverage to pay for my health insurance deductible?
It depends on your insurance policy. Some policies may allow you to use medical payments coverage to cover your health insurance deductible, while others may not.
How do I add medical payments coverage to my auto insurance policy?
You can add medical payments coverage to your auto insurance policy by contacting your insurance company or agent and requesting the coverage. The cost of the coverage will be added to your auto insurance premium.
In the end, medical payments coverage is a valuable optional coverage that can help cover medical expenses resulting from an auto accident. It is important to understand the coverage options available to you and to select the coverage that best meets your needs and budget. Contact your insurance company or agent for more information about adding medical payments coverage to your auto insurance policy today.
If you have been in an accident, please contact Sandel Law today.
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