Memphis Auto Accident Attorneys Answer FAQs
Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions about automobile accidents in Tennessee. If you've suffered injury in an accident caused by the negligence of another person, contact the skilled Memphis automobile accident attorneys of Skouteris & Magee, PLLC.
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Do you need a Memphis car accident lawyer or legal guidance in any of our practice areas? The attorneys at Skouteris & Magee, PLLC are dedicated and knowledgeable professionals who look forward to helping you. Contact us by e-mail or call at 888-339-6032.
Q: Why do I need automobile insurance and what does it cover?
A: It is legally mandatory for anyone operating a vehicle in Tennessee to carry auto insurance. Insurance protects drivers financially in case an accident occurs. Basic insurance policies cover the policyholder, as well as his or her family members, friends, and other associates who borrow the vehicle. At minimum, Tennessee policies must cover up to $20,000 per person or $40,000 per accident worth of bodily injury and up to $15,000 worth of property damage.
Q: What are the advantages to PIP coverage?
A: Personal Injury Protection coverage—also known as PIP—provides drivers with extended financial insurance in case they are injured in an accident. Under PIP, you receive swift reimbursement for 100 percent of medical expenses and 80 percent of lost wages due to missed work time, up to your limit. PIP coverage is optional in Tennessee.
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Q: Am I eligible to receive a rental car following my auto accident?
A: If you are not found to be at fault and your car is significantly damaged or totaled in the accident, you will likely be able to receive a rental car free of charge. The insurer of the at-fault driver will cover the repair expenses for your vehicle and the cost of a rental car until your vehicle is ready to drive again. Always make sure to take detailed photographs of the damage before repairs are done.
Q: What is comparative fault?
A: Comparative fault acknowledges that more than one individual or party can be responsible for an accident, and thus assigns compensation for damages based on the amount of fault determined. A jury decides upon distribution of fault, so it is important to use a skilled Memphis auto accident attorney when presenting your argument.
Q: Do passengers have grounds for filing injury claims?
A: Injured passengers may file claims seeking compensation from the at-fault driver. If more than one driver is found to be at fault, an injured passenger can seek damages from the insurance providers of both drivers.
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Q: Am I required to provide a recorded statement to an insurance adjustor?
A: Following an accident, insurance adjustors often ask those involved for their accounts of the crash. Compliance is not required, nor do most attorneys advise it. Instead, those involved in accidents should refrain from providing statements or signing anything without consulting their attorneys.
Q: Should I release my medical records to the insurance company?
A: Sometimes insurance adjustors request authorization to access your medical records—do not provide it. While maintaining detailed records of your auto accident injury is important, you and your attorney should have ultimate control over which items are released.
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Q: What is negligent driving?
A: Fault in an auto accident is determined by negligence. A driver who engages in inattentive or dangerous behaviors such as speeding, using electronic devices while driving, fatigued driving, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be found negligent and thus responsible for an accident.
Q: What compensation can I seek for my auto accident injuries?
A: Typically, accident injury victims who are not found to be at fault are eligible for coverage of medical expenses such as hospital bills, prescription drugs and durable medical equipment, as well as for lost wages, vehicle or other property damage, and emotional damage.
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