Legal Question in Personal Injury in Alabama
Hi,
I was rearened last saturday on Hwy 31 in Fultondale, Alabama. I was completely stopped at a red light when I was hit. It sent me a through an intersection and a little bit further. The guy must have not been paying attention because he locked up his brakes and hit me, all with in a few feet. (maybe 1 1/2 car lenghts) I did not go to the hospital via an ambulance since I did not know if he had insurance. I did go in my personal vehicle and was put in a neck brace because of muscle and ligament damage. I still hurt in my back, between my shoulder blades and in my shoulders.
I substained enough damage to my Jeep that I am sure it will cost more to fix it than to total it. However, I have a good motor and brand new tires and a new sterio (that was defaced because of the hard impact.) and I do not want my jeep totalled. I should not be at a loss from my vehicle because the insurance does not want to pay out the money to fix it. I did nothing wrong.
I need advice on what to do. I have been waiting on state farm to call me back since Tuesday but to no avail.
The driver of the other vehicle was given a breath alizer test on the scene but on the accident report it states no alcohol but unknown drug. (It does not say yes or not but unknown.)
I will be looking for an email on this matter.
Thanks,
Sonia Sandlin
503-8013
2 Answers from Attorneys
Dear Sonia,
Was State Farm their insurance carrier? Typically, you should send a letter with a copy of the accident report so they can identify their insured. You should also put your own insurance carrier on notice for a potential uninsured motorist claim. Send them a copy of the accident report as well. If you are still suffering from the injuries, you should continue to obtain treatment in order to substantiate the injury. The insurance carrier will try to say that you were not injured if you did not seek treatment. It is also important to keep a diary of your pain and daily activities that you are not able to do. It is much more believable when you can specifically identify a date and time of the medication you took and the things you were not able to do. There are many other issues to consider, but they are difficult to address in an e-mail without more specific questions. We have a lot of resources on our website at www.LFLMlaw.com, or you may e-mail me directly at [email protected].
Sonia,
There are many variables to consider. You have to be careful when dealing with insurance companies. Feel free to call me to talk about your situation. (205) 987-8787
Donna Beaulieu, Esq.
www.donnabeaulieu.com