Car Accidents

Being involved in an auto accident can be a life-changing event that can bring about distress, loss of income, pain, and suffering.

If you are involved in an auto accident due to another driver’s negligence, you have the right to take legal action to recover damages. Damages may include physical injuries, emotional trauma, and costs incurred as a result of the accident. At Ben Bowden, Attorney at Law, we will help you through the claim filing and settlement processes to assert your rights and ensure you get rightful compensation.

How to Determine Fault in a Car Accident

In order to recover compensation for car accident injuries, fault must be assigned to at least one driver. Determining who is liable for an accident can be challenging, and insurance companies will often try to point a finger at you. Here are the most common methods used to determine fault in a car accident:

• Parties involved deciding- Although there is always that instinct to blame the other driver, the at-fault driver may sometimes take responsibility voluntarily. If you are involved in a car accident, you should never admit fault. However, if the other driver admits being at fault, do not forget to take pictures of the accident, get the driver’s contact and insurance information, and contact your car accident attorney.
• Assessment by the police- After an accident, you should contact law enforcement. Once they arrive at the scene of the accident, they will develop an accident report describing how the accident occurred. This report can later be used to support your claim for compensation.
• A decision by the insurance companies- If the parties involved in an accident cannot agree who is at fault for the car accident, they can file claims with their car insurance companies. From there, the insurance companies will investigate the facts surrounding the accident and assign liability.

If none of the above methods work, the aggrieved party may file a lawsuit and settle the matter in court. Whether the at-fault party has decided to take responsibility or you have decided to pursue compensation in court, it is vital to have an experienced South Mississippi car accident attorney to guide you throughout the process.

Types of Damages to Recover after an Accident

If you have been injured in a car through no fault of your own, you can recover compensation for your losses in the form of damages. In a personal injury case, damages may include things such as:

• Medical bills
• Prescription costs
• Lost wages
• Lost overtime
• Diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering

Damages can be difficult to calculate without the help of an experienced personal injury attorney. Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement to help you pay your current medical expenses, but fail to provide compensation for ongoing treatment and other non-economic factors like loss of enjoyment for life.

To get the compensation you need to care for yourself and for your family, contact a personal injury attorney to discuss the facts of your case and determine the true value of your case.

Do You Need a Car Accident Attorney?

If you have been involved in a car accident, it is advisable to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Insurance companies will begin working from day one to limit the amount of money owed to you. A personal injury attorney can help you gather relevant evidence, document your losses, organize your medical expenses, and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.

You also have limited time in which you can file your claim. This time limit is known as the Statute of Limitations. If you fail to file a claim for damages during this time, then you will forfeit your right to seek compensation. Contact our office to get started today.

Contact Ben Bowden To Discuss Your Legal Options

At Ben Bowden, P.C., we help accident victims throughout Mississippi seek compensation for their injuries. Not only will he help you build the best case possible to maximize your financial recovery, but we will take your case to trial if necessary. There are other law firms that look for quick, easy settlements. At Ben Bowden, P.C., we provide individualized attention to every case so that our clients receive the compensation they need. If you have been injured in a car accident, contact us online or call us at (228) 896-5652 to find out how we can help you.