Law Offices of LYNDA DEE
(410) 332-1170
Serving the Community Since 1981

The Dos and Don’ts of Automobile Accident

I have been handling automobile cases since 1981 and have extensive experience in dealing with insurance companies. I have recovered thousands of dollars for my clients. I will be happy to provide you with a free consultation so that we can discuss your case. I will provide you with honest advice based on years of experience in dealing with both insurance companies and automobile accidents. If you decide to engage me as your attorney, I will provide you with personalized service. You will not be required to pay for my services until your case is settled. My fee will come from your settlement. If I don’t get you any money, you won’t owe me any money.

There a number of very important things you should know about automobile accidents. Car accidents are always traumatic, both physically and mentally. You need to be sure your rights are protected during this trying time. While most people do not wish to file claims or institute litigation, the unscrupulous practices of some insurance companies may cause honest people to be treated very unfairly if they are unaware of the benefits they may be entitled to as a result of the car accident.

Some people elect to represent themselves. Be advised that some insurance companies take advantage of novices. Plus, once you have unknowingly damaged your case, for example, by failing to document an injury or property damage, it may be impossible to remedy the problem even if you do hire an attorney at a later date.

Accident Dos and Don’ts List

After an accident:

Do discuss your case with an experienced attorney before you talk to an insurance company adjustor.

Don’t sign any documents before consulting with an attorney.

Do get information from the other driver(s) involved in the accident. You will need name, address, phone number, tag number and insurance information.

Do get the names, addresses and phone numbers of any witnesses to the accident.

Do call the police. It is usually helpful to have an official police report taken immediately after the accident.

Do not admit fault after the accident. You can check on the status of the other driver and be very civil without admitting any fault on your part.

Do go to an emergency room as soon as possible after your accident if you have any pain or discomfort immediately after the accident or as soon as possible after symptoms develop.

Before an Accident:

Do carry rental car rental coverage if you can afford it.

Do be sure car rental company will accept insurance payments.

Don’t waive PIP coverage. Your own PIP coverage will come in handy if you need medical care or if liability is contested.

How I can help you:

I can help find a convenient doctor who will accept payment from the insurance company and the medical records that the insurance company will require to process your claim.

I can direct you to physicians that will accept PIP benefits from your insurance policy and will not charge you up front for your medical care.

I can also answer the many complicated questions you may have about what you are legally entitled to when dealing with a number of different insurance companies.

I can help ensure that the liability carrier will pay you a lump sum to cover any outstanding medical bills, 80% of lost wages and reimburse you for the pain and suffering you have experienced as a result of the accident.

I will not receive any portion of your property damage settlement or any PIP benefits unless these issues are contested.

We will discuss your options as well as your injuries and damages carefully before you decide to accept or reject any settlement offers.

If you have suffered substantial and/or permanent personal injury, it may be advisable to file suit if you receive an inadequate offer of settlement.

Whatever you decide, remember once you accept a settlement and sign a release, you cannot receive additional compensation even if your condition worsens or a new medical condition develops even if it is caused by the accident.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Under Maryland law, you are required to carry Uninsured Motorist coverage. You can recover a settlement from your own company if the other driver is uninsured.

I can help you obtain the necessary documentation to establish an Uninsured Motorist settlement with your insurance company. I can also help you receive a lump sum settlement, 80% of lost wages and reimbursement for the pain and suffering you have experienced as a result of the accident from your own insurance company.

Automobile accidents often cause serious personal injury or serious property damage. They always cause stress and confusion, especially if you have never been through this complicated process before. Be sure you don’t fall prey to an unscrupulous company. Be sure your rights are protected, and that you aren’t subjected to even more damage after the accident because you don’t know your rights our have unknowingly waived your rights.

Call me for a free consultation so we can discuss your case. I have recovered thousands of dollars for my clients. If you decide to engage me as your attorney, I will provide you with personalized service and the benefit of my many years of experience in dealing with automobile accidents and insurance companies.