Many of you know that almost exactly one year ago I was in a car crash. No matter when and where it happens, getting involved in a car accident can be one of the worst experiences for a person to go through.
Everything happens in a matter of seconds. You see a car veering in your direction. Maybe you aren’t paying attention and you run a red light. Whatever the case, you only have a short amount of time to prepare for the screech of brakes and tires, not to mention the crunch of two cars or more in an intersection.
Even though an accident only lasts for a very short period of time, the repercussions of it can go on for months, even years. My boyfriend is still going to doctor’s appointments as a result of this accident. If the other driver or passengers in the car require hospitalization or treatment for injuries, then the party may contact you regarding a lawsuit.
If you are already trying to dig out from under a pile of financial obligations, this is the type of incident that can cause untold financial headaches. You would be quite sympathetic toward the other party, but the realization that your bank account will take a hit is enough to make you cry.
According to the Missouri Highway Patrol Statistical Analysis Center, 51,060 people were injured in car accidents across the state in 2011, the most recent year of survey data available. A total of 786 people were killed. The injury count has steadily declined each year since 1996 in every year except one (2010), while death totals have declined every year since 2005.
Many of these injuries no doubt have taken place in major metropolitan areas like Kansas City, Jefferson City and St. Louis, not to mention the numerous suburbs that dot the major cities in Missouri.
You may have been involved in a car crash in a suburb of St. Louis like Creve Coeur, St. Peters or Florissant. In any case you may need legal representation from a firm like accidentlawyerstlouis.com, which specializes in cases around St. Louis and the metropolitan suburbs. Whatever firm you use, realize that a car crash is no joking matter.
If one happens, keep all important paperwork handy. Be honest. The truth will come out. If you are honest about what happened, it may help you in the judgment process. You will be remorseful, and that will make for a better appearance in the courtroom.
Perhaps a medical judgment can be reached where a lump-sum payment is not awarded. It could be something where insurance covers part or most of the judgment and leaves you paying a deductible. If you are worried about a car crash, it may be worth your trouble to go toward insurance policies that have lower deductibles and premiums yet offer substantial coverage. Those policies are out there. You just need to shop around a little.
A car accident can be horrifying to experience, but it does not have to be a horror to your wallet. Do a little research into insurance and your rights, not to mention what you need to do if you are sued, and everything should be fine.