The incident, which occurred last Thursday, involved Cutler rear-ending another vehicle and allegedly attempting to flee the scene. According to police reports, Cutler smelled of alcohol, had bloodshot eyes, and slurred his words.

After getting in a car accident, one of the people you frequently talk to is the insurance adjuster. These adjusters work for the insurance company held by the at-fault driver or, in some cases, your insurance company. It’s their job to save the insurance company money by reducing your payout.

A car accident settlement is usually an agreement between the at-fault driver’s insurance company and the other person or people involved in the accident. It should cover all expenses, including physical, emotional, and job-related, and consider future expenses that may arise due to the accident.

A pre-existing condition, in relation to a car accident, refers to an injury or chronic illness that existed before the accident. For instance, you may have previously herniated a disk or sustained a fracture that did not completely heal. You’re stopped at a crosswalk when the car behind you runs into the back of your vehicle because the driver is not paying attention.

Pain and suffering is a legal term that encompasses the physical and the emotional pain a person who has been in a car accident may experience. It falls under general damages and can, in some cases, exceed the amount you’re awarded for medical expenses.

According to the National Safety Council, rear-end crashes are the most common car accidents in the U.S. Whether from distracted driving or tailgating, life can change almost instantaneously. Some accidents result in only minor inconveniences, while others cause catastrophic injuries.

Your demand letter is an essential step in the negotiating process between you, the person who caused the car accident, and their insurance company. A car accident demand letter isIt’s a formal document that serves to notify them of what occurred, who was at fault, the property damage, any injuries and subsequent treatment you received, and lost wages.

If you’re injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you can and should file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or file a lawsuit against the driver. Even if you don’t feel any pain or discomfort right after the accident, injuries can materialize later. How long you can wait after the accident and before claiming injury depends on the state you live in.

Car accidents can result in lasting adverse effects, from physical injuries that include whiplash, concussions, and spinal cord injuries to emotional impairments ranging from depression to PTSD. Sometimes, these effects are immediately apparent. Other times, they take days, if not months, to fully materialize.

You don’t always need a lawyer to pursue a car accident settlement. While there are instances where a legal professional can help you, there are also situations in which you can handle the claim independently. Settling your car accident claim without a lawyer involves patience, diligence, attention to detail, and willingness to negotiate.

Auto accident settlements exceeding policy limits are uncommon but possible, especially with severe injuries and clear liability. Learn more here.