Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dover, DE

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Dover, Delaware?

  (302)-736-7111 is the non-emergency line of the City of Dover Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Dover, Delaware?

  The Records Unit is reachable at 736-7106 while the physical office is at 400 S. Queen Street, Dover, DE 19904.

• What are the usual reasons behind car crashes in Dover?

  Car crashes in Dover frequently happen whenever motorists are negligent or reckless. This is shown by failing to yield the right-of-way or moving beyond legislative speed limits. It is also likely for motorists to be tired behind the wheel or to be distracted by their phones. Drunk driving is a risk factor and often results in rear-enders and intersection collisions.

• How could a cash-strapped car accident plaintiff in Dover acquire legal representation?

  A cash-strapped car accident plaintiff in Dover can acquire legal representation by looking for a lawyer who is willing to get paid on a contingency basis. It is common for personal injury attorneys to require zero upfront fees and to instead demand a cut of the favorable judgment or negotiated settlement. Nothing is owed if the client loses, minimizing the financial risk on the victim's end.

• Why is it helpful to write down a personal account of an accident in Dover even if it's self-serving?

  Even if a personal account of a car accident in Dover could be contested for being self-serving, it helps to write it down because human memory is fickle and prone to degradation. The account is useful for refreshing the plaintiff's memory to prevent contradictory statements from being made in court and insurance negotiations.

• If Dover is in a no-fault insurance state, why should a car accident victim still sue the other driver?

  A car accident victim should still sue the other driver in Dover because even if Delaware is a no-fault insurance state, there are limits to how far no-fault coverage goes. These plans usually have a time limit and only cover up to two years of medical expenses. Intangible damages like emotional trauma and long-term suffering also may require a court date to obtain.

• If a car accident victim was texting behind the wheel when a crash happened in Dover, is the recovery of damages prohibited?

  Not necessarily, the recovery of damages is not automatically prohibited in Dover if the car accident victim was texting behind the wheel. Dover follows Delaware law which imposes a comparative negligence system. This allows a party who is not more than 50% to blame for the harm sustained. The court could rule that a driver who was texting while behind the wheel is less culpable than the other one who was drunk and reduce instead of deny damages.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.