The Hidden Costs of Car Accidents
The attorneys at Silverman, McDonald & Friedman have been protecting the rights of Delaware injury victims for decades. We’re here to provide help and assistance after an accident. To find out more, contact us for a free initial consultation in our Wilmington, Newark or Seaford office.
Even the most minor of car accidents can be a major inconvenience. In the best-case scenario you might end up late for work or an appointment, with some dings or scratches on your car. In more serious accidents, however, your car may need major repairs or even be totaled. You may have injuries that need treatment.
It’s easy to think, “Well, insurance will pay for it,” but it’s not always that up front or simple. Many victims of car crashes are unhappily surprised by some of the surprise costs of car accidents.
Five unexpected expenses from car accidents
Car accidents cost the United States $230.6 billion a year – or about $820 per person. Some of these expenses may be “hidden” or unexpected, so keep these in mind after an accident, or discuss them with your personal injury lawyer.
- Vehicle rental. You may need a rental car to get back and forth while your car is in the shop. It’s true that many insurance policies cover the cost of rental car in the event of an accident. However, not all of them do – and it’s important to know the details of your policy before you need it. And, even if the other driver’s insurance will pay for your rental, it may take some time for a claim to process, so you may need to pay out of pocket first.
- Surprise car repairs. Most of the damage to your car after an accident will be obvious. However, your mechanic may discover more later on. Small things add up, like replacing car seats or specialty parts like headlights. It’s important to ensure your car is completely safe before putting it back on the road.
- Medical expenses. If you suffer injuries in an accident, those costs can also add up. Again, it can take time for claims to process, or you may have to pay out-of-network for specialists or specific brand-name medication. These may be out-of-pocket expenses.
- Auto loan payments. Unfortunately, if your car is totaled, that doesn’t erase any loan payments you may still owe. If you don’t have gap insurance, you have to pay your auto loan back even if you no longer have the car.
- Towing services. Another expense that takes many drivers by surprise is towing services. If your car is unusable or you are incapacitated after an accident, your car may be towed to a mechanic or salvage yard. If you have collision coverage, your insurance company should pay for this. However, policies may differ on when and how you’re reimbursed, and what services they deem reasonable.
If you suffered injuries or property damage in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you shouldn’t have to financially suffer. Costs from an accident can accumulate quickly and become overwhelming.
The personal injury lawyers at Silverman, McDonald & Friedman work to ensure people like you are compensated for their injuries and damages. Our experienced attorneys are proud to serve clients in the Wilmington, Seaford, and Newark areas. Call 302-888-2900 or fill out our contact form today.
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Attorney Jeffrey S. Friedman joined Silverman, McDonald & Friedman in 2001. He graduated from Widener University School of Law, and is admitted to practice law in Delaware and Pennsylvania, and in several Federal Circuit courts. He areas of concentration include auto accident and workers’ compensation cases. Read more about Attorney Friedman here.