Citrus Teen Dies From Injuries Caused in March Crash With Impaired Driver
DUI a factor in most fatalities
According to the most recent numbers from the CDC, 31 percent of all traffic accident fatalities involve an impaired driver. This should come as no surprise. Nevertheless, the problem continues. More frightening is the number of adults who self-report drinking and driving. In 2014, nearly 121 million Americans drove under the influence of drugs or alcohol, according to the CDC. This only accounts for adults. This number says nothing of the large number of minors who drink and drive.
Should I talk to the insurance company?
If an impaired driver has hit you or someone you love, you have rights. But you may only have a limited time to enforce those rights. You should never talk to the insurance company until you have first consulted with an attorney. The insurance company might tell you that failure to speak with them or answer questions will result in not being paid. This is a lie. You have an absolute right to consult with an attorney before answering questions. Rest assured, if an insurance company refuses to pay a valid claim for injuries because you wanted to speak with an attorney, this would look very bad for the insurance company at trial. You can always delay the conversation.
How do I get help?
Be respectful and courteous at all times when dealing with an insurance company. The easiest thing you can do is let the adjuster know you are very busy and need to reschedule the phone call or interview for another time. Once you have done so, contact an experienced and aggressive auto accident attorney who can help you prepare your statement and decide whether you are getting a fair offer. If not, your attorney can step in to negotiate for you. If the insurance company still will not pay a fair amount of compensation, your attorney may advise you that filing a lawsuit is needed. Each of these decisions will be made through close and careful assistance of a skilled lawyer who knows this area of practice. For more information or to get help with your case, contact the Romero Law Firm, serving Bradenton and all of the surrounding Bradenton area.
