Automobile accidents are a serious issue that affects drivers across the United States. According to statistics provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 2.5 million people were injured in automobile accidents in 2017 alone, while over 36,000 people lost their lives in car crashes. The economic cost of these accidents is also immense; estimates suggest that auto accident costs totaled $236 billion in 2017.
It’s important to understand the risks associated with automobile accidents so you can better protect yourself and your family. It’s also prudent to enlist the help of an experienced car accident lawyer, as they will be able to provide legal advice and guidance on how best to pursue any claims that may result from the incident. Car accident lawyers from Robert DeBry and Associates, who have extensive experience representing individuals involved in automobile accidents, shares more.
Individual Accident-related Costs
Car accidents can leave people with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial losses. A single accident can cost individuals thousands of dollars in medical bills for long-term treatments like physical therapy or rehabilitation. Lost wages from missed work days due to the injury can also add up quickly. In some cases, victims may be eligible for compensation from negligent parties if they enlist the help of a car accident lawyer.
Insurance Premiums and Legal Fees
The costs associated with automobile accidents don’t end with the victim’s medical bills and lost wages; insurance premiums can also increase significantly after an accident depending on the severity of the incident. Insurance companies may require more comprehensive coverage for drivers who are involved in frequent or serious accidents, leading to higher premiums. This is especially true in cases where the accident involved a fatality or serious injury.
Legal Fees
Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer is essential to ensure that your rights are protected and you get the compensation you deserve for your injury-related expenses. It however costs money to hire a car accident lawyer, but the fees charged are likely more than offset by any compensatory damages you receive. Legal fees vary depending on the type of legal representation you need and the complexity of your case. In many cases, a lawyer will work on a contingency basis, meaning that they will not charge any fees unless there is a successful outcome in your case.
Societal Costs of Accidents
In addition to the financial costs associated with car accidents, there are also hidden societal costs. These include lost productivity and wages from those who can no longer work due to their injuries, as well as an increase in emergency services used to respond to accidents. Moreover, there is also a loss of quality of life for victims which cannot be quantified in monetary terms.
Generally, automobile accidents can be devastating–causing physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial losses. To best protect your interest, it is important to work with an experienced car accident lawyer who will walk you through the process of filing a claim and seeking compensation. With their help, you may be able to recover some or all of your damages and obtain justice after an accident. In addition, by taking precautions and driving responsibly, you can help minimize your risk of becoming involved in an accident. Additionally, purchasing appropriate insurance coverage will help ensure that if the worst does happen, you have the financial resources needed to cover any damages or related expenses.