Legal Question in Personal Injury in Washington
I was rear ended today 7/10/11 driving home from church. My wife and son were also in the car and luckily not hurt. I was at a stop when we were hit. I was the only one with immediate neck and back pain. I received a ride from a ambulance to the hospital for several X-rays. A few hours and muscle relaxers later I was able to walk out of the hospital. I've been home now for three hours and my back and neck is still in alot of pain. Our vehicle looks like it has minor damage but we will need to get it to a bodyshop soon for repairs. My question is should I wait for a few weeks to see what happens or start looking for a attorney for general questions.
1 Answer from Attorneys
The most important thing you can do is NOT to talk to the opposing insurance company about anyone's injuries, or lack thereof. It's unfortunately very common for people with "soft tissue" injuries -- sprains and strains from whiplash-type actions -- to start feeling pain and stiffness a day or two later. But I would urge you not to talk to the oppposing insurer, at least until after you've talked to a personal injury attorney in your area. If possible, I'd suggest you see someone who handles ONLY personal injury. I'd get an estimate from a body shop now, and make sure they look carefully UNDER the car, for evidence of the force of impact, such as compressed shock-mounts inside bumpers.
Good luck to you, and I hope you feel better soon.
-- Sam