AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS

Automobile accidents are a product of our mobile society.  Nationally, an auto accident occurs every ten seconds and results in some three million injuries per year.  Statistically, more than one-half of Nebraska's automobile accidents occur at intersections and almost two-thirds of  its automobile accidents occur on two-lane roads.  A study has revealed that in three-quarters of those accidents no seatbelts were used and that one-third are alcohol-related.  Most all involve improper driving.

What should you do if you are injured in an automobile accident in Nebraska?

First and foremost, seek medical treatment for your injuries if needed.  Exchanging identification, vehicle registration, and insurance information is required.  If the accident involves significant injury or property damage, a report to the police is also required. It is important to memorialize the accident.  Take photographs of the vehicles involved, the site, and any injuries.  Start a journal to record how the injuries are affecting your life, work, and other daily activities.

Individuals involved in an automobile accident in Nebraska should consult an experienced Nebraska attorney as soon as possible following the accident.  Keep in mind that insurance companies are big businesses and employ adjusters whose job it is to settle claims as quickly and for as little money as possible.  They are not the friends or good neighbors of the victims of automobile accidents.  To level the playing field, it is important to get an attorney involved as soon as possible.

Nebraska law generally allows four (4) years from the date of the accident to pursue a personal injury claim and memories fade over that period of time.

What should you not do after an automobile accident in Nebraska?

Do not give written or recorded statements to insurance adjusters.  Do not sign any documents.  Do not discuss how the accident occurred.  Often personal injuries do not manifest themselves for days or even weeks after a significant automobile accident.

Under Nebraska law, both economic and non-economic damages are recoverable as a result of an automobile accident. 

Damages may  include:

1.   Medical and nursing expenses, care costs and supplies;
2.   Lost wages;
3.   Loss of earning capacity;
4.   Loss of use of property;
5.   Physical pain and mental suffering;
6.   Inconvenience;
7.   Loss of society and companionship;
8.   Injury to reputation;
9.   Humiliation; and
10. Loss of consortium.

Often insurance companies will not make any advance payment toward medical expenses in an effort to force a quick settlement.  A professional personal injury lawyer well-versed in auto accidents can help you through these difficult times.