What to do if I’m being sued for injuries ustained in a car accident?
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What to do if I’m being sued for injuries ustained in a car accident?
I was responsible for a somwhat minor rear-end collision almost 2 years ago. I was just served with legal papers; the party I hit is suing me for medical expenses, lost wages, etc. They did not file a claim with my insurance company prior to filing the lawsuit, nor in fact, they did even file a claim for property damage to their car. I turned this matter over to my insurance company to handle and they have assigned an attorney. Did the injured party need to file these claims with my insurance carrier before going the lawsuit route?
Asked on August 16, 2012 under Personal Injury, New Jersey
Answers:
Leigh Anne Timiney / Timiney Law Firm
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Generally yes, the injured party should have filed a claim with your insurance carrier for their personal injuries and their property damage immediately following the accident. The fact that they didn't is odd and I don't really understand it. Waiting almost two years and then actually filing suit against you is the most difficult way for them to seek compensation for their damages. The fact that they didn't file a claim does not prevent them from bringing the lawsuit, they just made it more difficult on themselves by doing it this way. It also gives your insurance company the defense that two years have gone by since the time of the accident and many events could have taken place in those two years which would have an effect on the outcome of this lawsuit, such as a second injury to the person who is suing you, or lack of your insurance companies ability to even property investigate the claim because a claim was never brought in the first place. Your insurance company will handle this for you and from what you have described, it does not sound like a significant claim. I know this is frustrating. Good luck to you.
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