Annually, there are over 6,000,000 auto accidents in the US with over 3,000,000 people injured and over 40,000 people killed. Auto accidents are the leading cause of death for Americans under the age of thirty. Alcohol is involved in almost 40% of fatal accidents. At an average rate of 115 fatalities per day, auto accidents cost a staggering 150 billion dollars yearly. Given the high number of automobiles accidents it is likely that you or someone you know will be involved in at least one auto accident in your lifetime.

Auto Accidents

The laws regarding automobile accidents are complex and can be very confusing. Many states have mandatory Personal Injury Protection Benefits (sometimes called No-Fault benefits) and/or Medical Expense payment benefits on all automobile insurance policies issued in that state. In some states, Personal Injury Protection Benefits can be coordinated with other medical or disability benefits to insure maximum compensation to the injured person. It is very difficult for an individual to understand the complex nature of these auto insurance benefits. Some states, not all, have provisions in the automobile insurance policy that allow for the reimbursement of lost wages if you are unable to work as a result of an automobile accident. Property damage to an automobile could be negotiated with your own automobile insurance carrier or with the

Disclaimer: The information supplied on this web site is general in nature and should not be relied upon to make legal decisions. The material contained in this website is not intended as legal advice. This web site is an advertisement for legal services.

insurance carrier for the negligent driver. Many states have adopted tort reform legislation that limits the ability of people injured in an automobile accident to recover damages. Lastly, there are significant differences between the benefits that are offered on a car, motorcycle or commercial vehicle. Whenever you have been in an accident, as a driver, passenger or pedestrian, and have any questions, feel free to contact us.

At the Law Offices of David P. Cline we only earn a fee if money is collected on your behalf. You may not be fully compensated unless you hire an attorney who is knowledgeable about all aspects of your claim.

If you are in an automobile accident follow these steps:

• Stay calm, do not panic.
• Call the police.
• If someone is injured call for medical assistance.
• If you are injured, seek medical attention.  This is not a time to be stoic.  Very serious injuries are not immediately apparent.  It is better to be safe than sorry.
• Obtain information from the other driver(s) involved in the accident such as name, address, telephone number, driver’s license number, license plate number  and insurance card information.
• Seek out all witnesses to the accident and get their names, addresses and phone numbers.
• Do not give a statement to anyone other than a police officer.
• Contact our office for free legal advice regarding your rights.