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Archive for car accident lawsuit

Do I Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?

Posted by David Brown 
· May 2, 2024 

Do I Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?

Car accidents can be overwhelming and distressing experiences. Even more so when you’re not at fault. In such situations, it’s natural to wonder whether you need a lawyer. After all, if the accident wasn’t your fault, shouldn’t the responsible party’s insurance cover everything? While that may seem logical, the reality is often more complicated. Let’s delve into why seeking legal counsel after a car accident, even if you’re not at fault, can be beneficial.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that insurance companies, while there to provide coverage, are still profit-driven entities. Their primary goal is to minimize payouts, which can sometimes leave you with less than you deserve. This is where having a lawyer on your side can make a significant difference. A skilled attorney understands the tactics insurers use and can negotiate with them on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.

Furthermore, the aftermath of a car accident can involve complex legal processes and paperwork. From filing insurance claims to gathering evidence and negotiating settlements, there are numerous tasks that need attention. Without legal expertise, navigating these processes can be daunting and may result in errors that could jeopardize your case. An experienced lawyer can handle all aspects of your claim, allowing you to focus on your recovery without added stress.

Another crucial reason to consider hiring a lawyer is to protect your rights. Insurance companies may try to pressure you into accepting a quick settlement, hoping you’ll settle for less than you deserve. Remember, once you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to seek further compensation, even if your injuries worsen over time. A lawyer will ensure that your rights are safeguarded and that any settlement offered adequately reflects the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Additionally, if liability for the accident is disputed or if the other party’s insurance denies your claim, having legal representation becomes even more critical. A skilled attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case to support your claim. They can also represent you in court if litigation becomes necessary, advocating for your interests every step of the way.

It’s also worth noting that personal injury laws vary by state, and navigating these laws without proper legal guidance can be challenging. A lawyer who is well-versed in the laws governing car accidents in your state can provide invaluable insights and ensure that your rights are fully protected under the law.

While it may be tempting to handle a car accident claim on your own, especially if you believe you’re not at fault, seeking legal counsel is often in your best interest. A qualified attorney can help level the playing field against insurance companies, navigate complex legal processes, protect your rights, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. So, if you find yourself asking, “Do I need a lawyer after a car accident that wasn’t my fault?” the answer is likely yes.

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In a Car Accident…Should You Hire a Lawyer?

Posted by David Brown 
· August 29, 2023 

If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, you are probably wondering what you should do next. There are a lot of emotions going through your head, but it is important for you to reach out to an attorney after you have seen a doctor to make sure any injuries you have are properly treated.

Many people simply want to resolve the situation as quickly as possible, so they end up reaching out to the insurance company to see if they can get everything covered. The reality is that you should not talk to an insurance company without a lawyer because you never know if you are going to say something that will jeopardize your ability to get the damages covered.

In addition, if you are injured, your medical expenses could be very high. You need to make sure the insurance company is going to pay for all of those damages, so you don’t want to jeopardize the opportunity for you to come back for more money later.

An attorney who specializes in car accidents has a significant amount of experience in this area that he or she can use to make sure your rights are protected and that you get the money you deserve. Furthermore, what happens if the cost of your property damage and medical expenses are greater than the liability of the insurance company? In that case, you will need to file a lawsuit against the other driver directly to recover the remaining funds. This is another area where a car accident lawyer can help you.

Of course, if you are involved in an accident that leads to serious injuries or a long-term, disabling condition, you certainly need to reach out to a car accident lawyer for help. On the other hand, even if the car accident is minor, you need to reach out to a car accident attorney for a case evaluation. Many attorneys will offer you a free consultation, and they will be honest about whether it is worth your time to file a lawsuit against anyone. If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, seek medical attention first. Then, reach out to a car accident attorney for a consultation.

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Family Still Fighting for Justice After Horrific 2018 Car Crash

Posted by David Brown 
· January 19, 2023 

On the night of December 7, 2018, Donald J. and Wilma Smith were driving along Route 39 in Washington Township when they were struck head-on by a Cadillac SRX. The driver – Yellow Creek Township Trustee Glenn McKenzie – reportedly lost control of his vehicle, crossed over the center, and struck the Smiths in the other lane.

A teenager named Amber Lynn Korbel and a passenger were behind the Smiths in a Chevy Impala. When McKenzie struck the Smiths, Korbel consequently hit them from behind. Though Korbel and her passenger did not sustain any injuries, McKenzie and the Smiths had to be airlifted to the hospital.

Due to the damage and injuries, Wilma Smith and her husband’s estate filed a lawsuit against McKenzie, Korbel, and their insurance company Ohio Mutual Insurance Group.

McKenzie was accused of driving under the influence, making him the subject of a wrongful death claim. Also, John and Helen’s Tavern, the American Legion John Adams Post 442, and the Tangerine Lounge were also part of the lawsuit. They were hit with a liquor liability claim due to the belief that they irresponsibly served McKenzie alcohol that night.

Korbel was named in the suit as she was believed to be following too closely behind the Smiths. And the insurance company was named on an allegation that there was a breach of contract in regard to the amount of uninsured motorist coverage that the Smiths were supposed to have.

Though a new lawsuit was recently filed, McKenzie has already been judged and sentenced. At first, he admitted to being guilty of driving under the influence, as well as two counts each of vehicular assault and aggravated vehicular assault. His punishment was set to 45 months in prison and having his license stripped for the rest of his life.

Later, he appealed this sentence and the case went back to court. After some consideration, the court knocked nine months off of his prison time. The 411 days that he had already served counted toward his sentence, leaving him with less than two years to go. Additionally, they only suspended his license for a decade and ordered him to pay $208,890 in restitution to the victims.

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