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Car accidents are a common occurrence on roads around the world. Unfortunately, they can result in more than just vehicle damage and physical injuries. Many victims of car accidents face hidden costs that insurance may not fully cover.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident, it’s essential to be aware of these hidden costs and to seek the right legal assistance.
At Jett Legal, we understand the complexities of personal injury law and can help you navigate the aftermath of a car accident. Whether you need help negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing legal action, our experienced team of personal injury lawyers is here to help.
So, let’s dive in and learn more about the hidden costs of car accidents and how a St. Louis car accident lawyer can help.
Medical Expenses
One of the most significant costs associated with car accidents is medical expenses. Even minor accidents can result in injuries that require medical attention, and the costs can add up quickly. While health insurance may cover some of the car accident medical bills, it may not cover all of them. For example, copays, deductibles, and coinsurance can leave you with significant out-of-pocket expenses.
Some treatments or procedures may not be covered by health insurance, as well. For instance, chiropractic or acupuncture treatment may not be covered, and you may need to pay for them out of pocket. Even if your insurance covers needed medical treatments, it may have a cap on the number of visits, leaving you responsible for any additional costs.
It’s essential to keep careful records of all medical expenses related to the car accident, including doctor visits, prescriptions, medical devices, and any other related expenses. This information can be useful when negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
Lost Income
Injuries sustained in a car accident can cause you to miss work, resulting in lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from returning to work or cause you to miss work for an extended period, you may lose your job altogether. Even if you have paid sick leave or vacation time, it may not be enough to cover the lost wages.
While insurance may provide some compensation for lost income, it might not cover all lost wages. Insurance companies sometimes provide compensation for a certain period or just a percentage of the lost income. It’s also important to note that insurance companies may dispute the extent of the lost income, resulting in a lengthy and complicated negotiation process.
Property Damage
Even minor accidents can result in expensive repairs or even total loss of the vehicle. While insurance may cover the cost of repairs or replacement, it may not be enough to cover the full extent of the damage.
For example, if your car was a classic or custom vehicle, the cost of repairs or replacement might exceed the coverage provided by insurance. If you rely on your car for work or transportation, you may face additional costs associated with renting a car or taking public transportation while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced.
It’s important to document all of the property damage sustained in the car accident and to provide this information to the insurance company. However, if the insurance company does not provide enough compensation to cover the cost of repairs or replacement, it may be necessary to pursue legal action.
Emotional Distress
Car accidents can cause victims significant emotional distress. The trauma of the accident, your injuries sustained, and the impact on your life can result in long-lasting emotional effects. You may experience anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health issues following a car accident.
While insurance may not cover emotional distress directly, you might be able to pursue compensation for the emotional toll the accident has taken on your life. This compensation can help cover the cost of therapy, counseling, and other mental health services.
It’s important to seek help for any emotional distress following a car accident. You should document any emotional or mental health issues you experience and seek the help of a qualified mental health professional. You should also speak with a personal injury lawyer to learn more about your options for pursuing compensation for emotional distress.
Legal Fees
Victims of car accidents may face significant legal fees associated with pursuing compensation for their injuries and damages.
At Jett Legal, our team of experienced personal injury lawyers works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case. This is beneficial if you do not have the money to pay for legal fees upfront. And lawyers who work on a contingency fee basis are often highly motivated to pursue compensation for their clients, as their payment depends on the outcome of the case.
It’s important to speak with a personal injury lawyer to learn more about their fee structure and how they can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
Contact A St. Louis Car Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident, it’s important to seek the help of a personal injury lawyer. At Jett Legal, our team of experienced personal injury lawyers can help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Don’t let the hidden costs of a car accident impact your life and financial stability. Contact us today to schedule a free case review and learn more about how we can help you.
Author Bio
Matt Jett is the CEO and Managing Partner of Jett Legal, a Missouri personal injury law firm. With more than 10 years of
experience in personal injury, he has zealously represented clients in various legal matters, including car and truck
accidents, workers’ compensation, wrongful death, and other cases.
Matt received his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law and is a member of the Missouri
Bar Association. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including the Rising Stars distinction by Super Lawyers 2019-2022.
