Hidden Costs of Car Accidents

Car accidents happen every day in Los Angeles. Some of these auto accidents involve multi car pileups and big rigs, some involve trucks and motorcycles. Regardless of the type of auto accident, the individuals injured in them may be surprised to learn about the hidden costs associated with auto accidents -- and that they might be recoverable.

For various reasons, many Los Angeles auto accident victims are more hesitant than ever to file claims with their insurance companies, even when they are not at fault in an accident. Reasons include fear that their insurance premiums might go up or that they might get “points” on their driver’s license, or that their injuries were not "bad enough". As an experienced accident attorney will inform you, these concerns should not keep you from recovering what is rightfully yours.

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Costs Associated with Handling Auto Accident Claims Out of Pocket

The short- and long-term costs of auto accidents handled out-of-pocket far surpass any punitive costs associated with insurance companies or the Department of Motor Vehicles. Indeed, these out of pocket costs can include long-term damage to the vehicle that is unknown just after the time of the accident, depreciation of the vehicles involved in the accident, and most importantly, any future health complications caused by the accident.

These unforeseen costs, plus the fact that a large number of car accidents are caused by either drunk or distracted drivers, should be the incentive victims need to take action to protect their legal rights and financial spend, as well as properly report and punish offending drivers. In many cases, this means going above and beyond filing a claim with your insurance company and seeking the assistance of an experienced car accident lawyer who will be by your side every step of the way.

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Step 1:

After a car accident, those involved need to call the police and report the accident. While in Los Angeles the police generally will not come to the scene unless there are serious injuries or traffic is being held up, having this record provides helpful information for later proving fault. Regardless of if the police come or not, take lots of pictures and get contact information from the other driver and witnesses.

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Step 2:

Seek medical attention. You may not feel injured in the moment, thanks to adrenaline, but it is important to document that you sought medical care.

Step 3:

Contact your insurance company and file the claim while the details are fresh in your mind.

Step 4:

Contact a skilled auto accident lawyer to help you determine how much you may be able to recover financially for your injuries and property damage.

Step 5:

Report the accident to the DMV.

For more information on the hidden costs associated with car accidents and how to move forward with filing a legal claim, contact the accident attorneys at Ghozland Law Firm today.

 If you or a loved on e have been injured in an auto accident, reach out to the compassionate trial lawyers at PSB Law for more information about your legal rights, including your potential for financial recovery.`