Best Car Accident Lawyers in Morristown, TN

FAQs

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

  The Morristown Police Department can be reached at (423) 585-2710.

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

  To obtain an accident report from the City of Morristown free of charge, call the Records Division of the Morristown Police Department at (423) 585-2710, option 2.

• Can a Morristown attorney help with collecting evidence from a car accident in Morristown and preserving it?

  Yes, they can help with that. In addition, they can also accomplish other tasks in relation to representing you and winning your case. These include documenting your expenses, managing all communications between you and insurance companies, negotiating for a higher settlement, explaining all of your legal options, and fighting for your rights at trial if needed.

• How long does a car accident victim have to file for a damage claim in Morristown?

  Morristown, and the rest of Tennessee, follow one of the shortest statutes of limitations for personal injuries. An injured victim only has 1 year from the date of the accident to start filing for a damage claim. If this window is missed, the case may be dismissed or be "time-barred." Please note that this does not mean that the case must be resolved within a year. This just means that legal action must be initiated before the deadline.

• Is it necessary to be seen by a doctor after a car accident in Morristown?

  It most certainly is. Apart from the fact that a visit to the doctor in Morristown is going to yield medical records that you can later use for your car accident claim, it can also make sure that you are not suffering any hidden injuries. Internal bleeding is an example of a condition that sometimes only manifests outwardly when you're already in a serious condition.

• What is the contingency fee charged by attorneys in Morristown for a car accident case?

  A contingency fee basis just means that the attorney you hired will not be charging anything upfront and will only be paid once you win your case, or when a settlement or a verdict has been collected. Contingency fees in Tennessee are capped at about 1/3 of the awarded settlement or 33%.

• What are the things you should look out for when dealing with insurance companies in Morristown because of a car accident claim?

  As with all insurance companies in Morristown, it is important to remember that their primary goal is most likely to offer you an amount that is much smaller than what you are entitled to receive, if not outright deny your claim. Knowing this, be prepared for the possibility that they may undermine your claim, cause intentional delays, and confuse you into signing an agreement. The aid of an attorney becomes invaluable against these tactics.

• 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.