Legal Question in Personal Injury in California

Being sued for medical compensation for an accident that happend one year ago
Last july I rented a vehicle to travel to Los Angeles. While on vacation I was involved in a minor vehicle accident, where I struck a vehicle that suddenly stopped in front of me. We exchanged insurance and personal information, and decided to let our insurance companies handle it. I asked several times if any medical assistance would be needed, where I was told no. We both left the scene not informing local athorities. I was contacted by both insurance companies, and assumed all was taken care of. Until recently, when my spuose was contacted by their attorney. I am out of country. What do I do?

Asked on 4/02/03, 8:23 am

4 Answers from Attorneys

Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

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Re: Being sued for medical compensation for an accident that happend one year ag

You should consult with an attorney and give him/her the details of what happened, what the other side is alleging and how much they want in damages. You might need to retain the attorney to represent you after the consultation.

Many people mistakenly believe that, where there is insurance, the drivers involved in an accident are safe from lawsuits. That isn't the case. The drivers don't need to sue each other, but a driver's insurance company can sue the other driver to recover the amount paid out on the claim if the insurer believes the other driver is at fault.

The suit may be seeking money to pay for the damaged car, for medical bills, and possibly for other losses as well. The fact that the other driver said he was OK at the time does not mean he was uninjured; some injuries aren't obvious right away.

This suit may or may not become a major problem for you, but you will want a lawyer to tell you what to expect and, probably, to represent you as well.

Answered on 4/02/03, 3:20 pm

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Roy Hoffman Law Offices of Roy A. Hoffman

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Re: Being sued for medical compensation for an accident that happend one year ag

If you (or your spouse) have been served with a summons and complaint, you should immediately provide a copy to the insurance company you had at the time of the accident. If you are being sued, the insurance company generally has a duty to defend the lawsuit, regardless of whether the other driver or the insurance company is suing.

Answered on 4/02/03, 4:35 pm

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