Auto Accident & Insurance Information

What should I do if I am in an auto accident?
Following an auto accident, it is important to call the police and seek medical treatment. Here are some others steps you need to do:

• Make sure an accident report if filed with the local police.
• Document as much as you can regarding the accident (what happened, injuries, lost wages, conversations you have had with others about the accident, etc.) and provide this to your attorney only.
• Only speak to your attorney or doctor regarding your accident or injuries. Do not speak to an insurance adjuster – your attorney will do that for you.
• If possible, take photos of the car(s) involved, the accident scene and any visible injuries.
• Get the contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident.

Click here for a copy of Murray Guari’s Auto Accident checklist.

What is my auto case worth?
Each auto case is unique. If someone else’s negligence caused the accident and resulted in injuries, your attorney can help you obtain payment you are entitled for medical expenses, future medical expenses, lost wages, future lost wages and pain and suffering.

How long will it take to resolve my case?
Each case is individual. Cases can last for several months or even up to several years depending on your case’s circumstances including injuries sustained and your current and future medical conditions. Your attorney will discuss your case specifics.

I have full coverage, why am I not covered?
Full coverage, while it can mean a variety of things, does not automatically imply that bodily injury is covered. Contact your insurance company for clarification on your insurance coverage.

What is Uninsured Motorist Protection (UMC)? Should I get it?
Uninsured Motorist Protection should seriously be considered and may be one of the best bargains in auto insurance. In effect, you are establishing insurance coverage for those situations in which the other at fault driver is uninsured or insufficiently insured. If you or someone else under your policy was seriously injured, a claim could be made against your own carrier for all damages recognized by the laws of Florida.

What are the MMI and permanent impairment rating?
At the conclusion of your treatment with a doctor, your attorney will request a final narrative of your condition. Once a physician has decided you are at Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), some doctor’s assign, and insurance company’s request, a permanent impairment rating. It does not mean that you are back to the physical or mental condition you were at prior to the accident. It simply means your condition has stabilized and you have a loss. This is generally done pursuant to American Medical Association (AMA) guidelines. A permanent impairment rating technically is not called for as a basis at trial in an automobile case, but many automobile insurance companies like to have the impairment rating, so they can evaluate the case.