Best Car Accident Lawyers in Johnson City

FAQs

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

  The Johnson City Police Department can be reached at (423) 434-6000.

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

  To obtain a police accident report from the Johnson City Police Department, call the Records Division at (607) 798-9561. You can also make a request by going to the police department at 601 E Main Street and then proceeding to the Records Window in the lobby, which is open from Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 3:30 PM. Please be informed that the report costs $0.25 per page.

• Is it okay for a person injured in a car accident in Johnson City to visit a doctor just once?

  If you were injured in any way at all in Johnson City, it is best to make sure that you follow the physician's orders. If they say that you need to make a follow-up appointment, then do so. If there is no need, then good. But If it should ever be proven that you failed to follow a doctor's order and your injuries worsened, then it may be used against you to deny your damage claim.

• What are the busiest roads in Johnson City where accidents are likelier to happen?

  There is considerable traffic movement along major roads like I-81, I-26, and US routes 11E, 19W, 23, and 321. Johnson City is connected to Washington, Sullivan, and Carter counties and estimated that its roads see about 200,000 in traffic population going in and out daily. Being the largest municipality in the Northeast Tennessee Tri-Cities means that Johnson City attracts workers and students alike.

• How do you tell if a car accident victim in Johnson City needs urgent medical attention?

  One of the most common life-threatening situations that can happen in a car accident is for any one of the people involved to go into shock. There are many reasons why this can happen, but this essentially obstructs blood flow to the organs. You must watch out for rapid breathing or shortness of breath, mental confusion, one or two dilated pupils, and cold and clammy skin. Waste no time and call 911 immediately.

• Is there 24-hour emergency care available for car accident victims in Johnson City?

  Yes, The Johnson City Medical Center is a Level 1 Trauma Center open 24/7. It is on 400 N. State of Franklin Road and can be reached at (423) 431-6562. Apart from acute, emergency medical attention, it is also equipped to provide intensive care, surgical care, outpatient management, and rehabilitation services.

• What option does a claimant have if they feel like the insurance company is intentionally delaying their claim after an accident in Johnson City?

  If an injured claimant feels like they are being made to wait unjustly to be awarded their compensation by the insurance company, they have the option to seek legal aid for bad faith. It will fall upon the claimant to prove that the insurance company does not have a genuine reason to delay. Act quickly when hiring an attorney, as insurance policies are strict in following deadlines.

• 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.