If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident, see a doctor immediately and don't delay. If the other driver was at fault in the accident, that driver and his or her insurance company may very well be responsible for paying ALL of your medical expenses, the damage to your vehicle, your pain and suffering, any permanent disability or future medical treatments you may need, and any loss of wages or damages to make you whole again. There may also be other insurance available to pay for medical bills, such as medical payment coverage ( i.e. "med pay" ) on your own insurance policy. You should also know that Nevada law protects you when you use your own med pay in two very important ways. First, when your claim is resolved, your insurance company cannot seek reimbursement from your settlement for the money it had to pay on your behalf. Second, your insurance company cannot raise your insurance rates, as long as you were not at fault in the accident. Ultimately, this means more money to you. For most people, increasing their med pay coverage is very beneficial. In addition to recovering your damages for your own injuries, if you were married at the time of the accident, your spouse may also be entitled to a separate claim for loss of consortium because of the negative effect the accident had on your relationship. Sometimes, the other driver has limited, or no insurance coverage on his or her vehicle at the time of the collision. However, if you carry Unisured/Underinsured coverage ( i.e. UM/UIM coverage), you can still receive full compensation for your injuries. For example, if the value of your claim is $100,000 and the other driver only has a $50,000 policy, but you have $50,000 in UM/UIM coverage on your policy, you can receive full compensation. In fact, your own insurance company is obligated to investigate the claim and to pay the full UM/UIM benefits, even if the other driver's insurance company refuses to do so. Oftentimes, insurance companies will attempt to obtain a recorded statement from you after the collision. Be advised, however, that this is for their benefit, NOT yours, and speak with an attorney first. Because the circumstances in each collision are different, do not delay in consulting an experienced attorney to learn more about your legal rights and how those rights can best be protected. Edward J. Achrem & Associates provides a free initial consultation if you have been injured in an accident. Protect yourself and your rights. We also provide legal representation in both Nevada and California. With over 40 years of combined legal experience, we have the resources, expertise and legal knowledge it takes to protect your legal rights. Achrem & Associates "From the claim to the courtroom, we're there when you need us most." Nevada Supreme Court Rule 196(4) requires the following disclaimer: "The State Bar of Nevada does not certify any lawyer as a specialist or expert."
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