As an accident victim in the United States, you have significant legal rights β whether or not you hire an attorney.
If someone else was at fault, you can seek damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage β through insurance or in court.
The accident report is a public record. You can obtain a copy from the responding police department β usually for a small fee β within a few days of the crash.
You don't have to accept your insurer's damage estimate. You have the right to get a second opinion from a mechanic of your choice before agreeing to repairs.
If you disagree with a settlement, you can file a lawsuit in civil court. For smaller amounts, Small Claims Court is available without a lawyer in all 50 states.
You are not required to provide a recorded statement to the at-fault driver's insurer. Consult with an attorney before agreeing to any recorded interview.
If an insurer acts in bad faith β unreasonable delays, lowball offers, wrongful denials β file a free complaint with your state's Department of Insurance.