{"id":353145,"date":"2016-09-19T15:36:25","date_gmt":"2016-09-19T20:36:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/injury\/car-accidents\/who-do-i-sue-after-a-car-accident.html"},"modified":"2025-10-13T16:03:52","modified_gmt":"2025-10-13T21:03:52","slug":"who-do-i-sue-after-a-car-accident","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/who-do-i-sue-after-a-car-accident.html","title":{"rendered":"Who Do I Sue After a Car Accident?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Who Do I Sue After a Car Accident?<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/christie-nicholson-j-d\/\">Christie Nicholson, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/laura-temme-esq\/\">Laura Temme, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            October 13, 2025\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-key-takeaways fl-mb30\" data-testid=\"fl-key-takeaways\">\n    <div class=\"fl-card-content\">\n        <div class=\"fl-card-body fl-card-bg-teal fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n                            <h2 class=\"fl-card-title fl-h2 fl-no-margin\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n                        <p>If you choose to pursue <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453095\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453095\">legal action<\/span> after a car accident, you typically sue the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453080\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453080\">at-fault driver<\/span> who caused the crash. This depends on factors like <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453116\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453116\">insurance coverage<\/span>, state liability laws, and whether multiple parties were involved. In most cases, you cannot sue the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\">insurance company<\/span> directly and must pursue the other driver personally, with their <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\">insurance company<\/span> providing legal defense.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>If you were in an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453100\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453100\">auto accident<\/span><\/a> and weren\u2019t the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453086\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453086\">at-fault party<\/span>, you probably have many questions. In a best-case scenario, the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\">insurance company<\/span> pays your claim, which means you won\u2019t need to pursue <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453095\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453095\">legal action<\/span>. When the insurance adjuster denies your claim or the other driver doesn\u2019t have insurance, a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453137\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453137\">personal injury claim<\/span> may be your best option.<\/p>\n<p>Who exactly do you sue after a serious <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453109\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453109\">car crash<\/span>? This article examines this question and explains your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-accident-legal-help.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453114\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453114\">legal options<\/span><\/a>. It also discusses the types of damages you can demand after your accident.<\/p>\n<p>If you still have questions about your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453093\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453093\">car accident case<\/span> or want to know if you have a valid claim, contact a local <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/meeting-with-an-attorney.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453081\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453081\">car accident lawyer<\/span><\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453087\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453087\">personal injury attorney<\/span><\/a> for <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453097\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453097\">legal advice<\/span>. They can explain how local rules apply to your unique circumstances.<\/p>\n<h2>Reasons an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\">Insurance Company<\/span> May Deny Your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453091\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453091\">Car Accident Claim<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If your accident is minor, the insurance carrier will likely pay your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/insurance\/insurance-claims.html#:~:text=FindLaw%E2%80%99s%20Insurance%20Claims%20section%20covers%20the%20basics%20of,to%20help%20protect%20your%20rights%2C%20and%20much%20more.\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453090\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453090\">insurance claim<\/span><\/a>. It may be more costly to fight your claim than to settle it. However, if you suffer serious injuries in your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453109\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453109\">car crash<\/span>, the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\">insurance company<\/span> may deny your claim.<\/p>\n<p>There are several reasons why this may happen, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The insurance adjuster believes you were the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/fault-and-liability-for-motor-vehicle-accidents.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453080\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453080\">at-fault driver<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li>You have a history of filing <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453111\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453111\">car <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453090\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453090\">insurance<\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453090\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453090\"> claims<\/span><\/li>\n<li>You waited too long to file a claim<\/li>\n<li>The <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\">insurance company<\/span> believes you are exaggerating your injuries or <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453117\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453117\">financial losses<\/span><\/li>\n<li>The insurance carrier cancelled the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453086\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453086\">at-fault party<\/span>\u2019s <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453096\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453096\">insurance policy<\/span> for non-payment<\/li>\n<li>The insurance adjuster thinks they can settle your claim for much less than the full amount<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\">insurance company<\/span> denies your claim, you can file an appeal. The same people who denied your claim will be the ones handling your appeal, so keep your expectations low. The <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453120\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453120\">best course of action<\/span> may be to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit.html\">file a lawsuit<\/a> against the other driver.<\/p>\n<p>In most states, you cannot sue the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\">insurance company<\/span>. Instead, you must pursue the other driver. If you do file a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/starting-a-lawsuit-initial-court-papers.html#:~:text=This%20article%20provides%20an%20overview%20of%20starting%20a,discusses%20answers%20to%20complaints%2C%20counterclaims%2C%20and%20third-party%20complaints.\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453108\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453108\">personal injury lawsuit<\/span><\/a>, the insurance carrier must represent the other driver in court.<\/p>\n<h2>When the Other Driver Doesn\u2019t Have Insurance<\/h2>\n<p>If the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453086\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453086\">at-fault party<\/span> is an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453136\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453136\">uninsured driver<\/span>, you have two options. You can either sue them or file a claim with your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453129\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453129\">own <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\">insurance<\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\"> company<\/span> under your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/uninsured-motorist-insurance-coverage-and-claims.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453128\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453128\">uninsured\/underinsured motorist<\/span> policy<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>If you decide to sue the driver, keep in mind that drivers who don\u2019t have an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/automobile-insurance-policy-coverage.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453127\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453127\">auto <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453096\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453096\">insurance<\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453096\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453096\"> policy<\/span> <\/a>may lack significant assets as well. Even if you win your lawsuit, you may never see that money.<\/p>\n<p>Filing a claim with your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453129\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453129\">own <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\">insurance<\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453079\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453079\"> company<\/span> may be the better option. While there is no guarantee your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/do-i-need-underinsured-motorist-coverage.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453121\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453121\">underinsured motorist coverage<\/span><\/a> will pay your total claim, it is better than receiving nothing.<\/p>\n<h2>Potential Defendants in Your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453088\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453088\">Car Accident Lawsuit<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If the insurance adjuster denies your claim or only pays part of it, you have two choices. You can accept their decision, or you can sue the other driver directly. If you choose to take <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453095\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453095\">legal action<\/span>, you must decide who you want to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/going-to-court\/courtroom-proceedings-in-america-and-how-to-survive-them.html\">name in your lawsuit<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>As part of the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453098\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453098\">legal process<\/span>, you must name the defendants in your initial complaint. Who you sue after a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453109\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453109\">car crash<\/span> depends on many factors, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Your state\u2019s liability laws<\/li>\n<li>Whether the other driver has <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453127\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453127\">auto insurance<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Whether you were <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/can-i-file-an-injury-claim-if-a-car-accident-was-my-fault.html\">partially at fault<\/a> for your accident<\/li>\n<li>The type of <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453116\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453116\">insurance coverage<\/span> the other driver carries<\/li>\n<li>Whether your car accident involved more than one other vehicle<\/li>\n<li>Whether you were a driver or a passenger at the time of the accident<\/li>\n<li>Other factors relevant to your specific case<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In most <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453093\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453093\">car accident cases<\/span>, the victim sues the other driver(s) involved in the motor vehicle accident. There may be instances where you may need to name a third party. If the person who caused your crash was <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453112\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453112\">drunk driving<\/span>, you may have a claim against the owners of the bar or restaurant who served them alcohol. This will depend on the <a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/personal-injury\/dram-shop-law-liability-and-the-alcohol-seller\/\">dramshop laws<\/a> in your state.<\/p>\n<h2>Who Do I Sue After a Fatal Car Accident?<\/h2>\n<p>Some car accidents result in serious <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453122\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453122\">physical injuries<\/span> or death. If your loved one dies as a result of a car accident, you may have a claim for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/wrongful-death.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453115\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453115\">wrongful death<\/span><\/a>. Whether you have standing to sue depends on the laws of your state. Only certain family members, such as a spouse, children, or parent, can file these claims.<\/p>\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453083\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453083\">personal injury lawyer<\/span><\/a> can explain how to file a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453115\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453115\">wrongful death<\/span> lawsuit against the other driver. They\u2019ll also fight to get you the compensation your family deserves.<\/p>\n<h2>Determining Fault for Your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453100\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453100\">Auto Accident<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The first thing you and your attorney must determine is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/who-is-liable.html\">who caused the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453109\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453109\">car crash<\/span><\/a>. If your collision only involved one other motorist, there is a good chance they are liable for your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453135\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453135\">accident injuries<\/span>. If you were involved in a multi-car accident, you would want to name everybody who contributed to the crash in your complaint.<\/p>\n<p>While it\u2019s essential to determine the other drivers\u2019 culpability, you must also assess your own <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/car-who-is-liable.html\">level of fault<\/a>. If you were partially at fault for the crash, it will impact your ability to collect damages from the other parties.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you still receive compensation in a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453108\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453108\">personal injury lawsuit<\/span> will depend on your state\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/negligence.html\">negligence laws<\/a>. Most states allow a plaintiff to collect damages even if they were partly at fault for the accident. In many jurisdictions, the amount you recover is reduced by whatever percentage the court finds you were at fault. This is called <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/comparative-negligence.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453131\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453131\">comparative negligence<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Some states follow a modified <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453131\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453131\">comparative negligence<\/span> rule. This means that you can recover even if you were partially at fault, but only up to a certain threshold (usually around 50%). However, a handful of states follow a pure contributory negligence rule that prohibits you from collecting damages if you were even 1% at fault.<\/p>\n<p>Due to the complexity involved, consider meeting with an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453125\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453125\">experienced <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453084\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453084\">car accident attorney<\/span> before filing your lawsuit in the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453133\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453133\">civil court<\/span>. They\u2019ll provide a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453132\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453132\">case review<\/span> and explain your state\u2019s laws on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/contributory-and-comparative-negligence.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453131\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453131\">comparative negligence<\/span><\/a>. They\u2019ll also help you <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453110\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453110\">gather evidence<\/span> to prove the other <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453126\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453126\">driver\u2019s negligence<\/span> if your case goes to trial.<\/p>\n<h2>Available Damages in a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453108\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453108\">Personal Injury Lawsuit<\/span>?<\/h2>\n<p>The whole point of filing a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453088\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453088\">car accident lawsuit<\/span> is to recover compensation for your injuries. When you file your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/first-steps-in-personal-injury-claim.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453137\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453137\">personal injury claim<\/span><\/a>, you must include a demand for damages, outline how much money you feel you deserve, and provide a justification for each type of damages you claim.<\/p>\n<p>In most <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453123\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453123\">personal injury cases<\/span>, an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453118\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453118\">accident victim<\/span> can expect to receive some or all of the following <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/injury-damages.html\">types of damages<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453103\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453103\">Medical bills<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Future <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453102\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453102\">medical treatment<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/making-a-lost-wages-claim.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453104\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453104\">Lost wages<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li>Lost future income<\/li>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453113\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453113\">Emotional distress<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/personal-injury\/how-much-pain-and-suffering-is-enough-to-sue\/\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453105\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453105\">Pain and suffering<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Since most <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453088\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453088\">car accident lawsuits<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/legal-system\/what-does-it-mean-to-settle-a-case.html\">settle out of court<\/a>, there is a strong likelihood that you\u2019ll receive less than your full demand. Just know that your attorney will not encourage you to accept a settlement that doesn\u2019t at least cover your out-of-pocket expenses.<\/p>\n<h2>Seek <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453119\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453119\">Legal Representation<\/span> for Your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453088\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453088\">Car Accident Lawsuit<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The best way to protect your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453094\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453094\">legal rights<\/span> after an accident is to retain an <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453125\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453125\">experienced <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453084\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453084\">car accident attorney<\/span><\/a> to represent you. If the other driver\u2019s insurance carrier doesn&#8217;t pay your claim, you may have no choice but to sue the other driver. This can be a daunting experience if you aren\u2019t familiar with the law and your local court rules.<\/p>\n<p>Contact a local <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453081\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453081\">car accident lawyer<\/span> today to schedule your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453106\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453106\">free case evaluation<\/span>. Your attorney will review your case and let you know how best to proceed. They\u2019ll also answer any questions you have about your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/car-accidents\/get-legal-help-with-a-motor-vehicle-accident.html\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_draft_term_54453093\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54453093\">car accident case<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3418)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M6 21H3C2.46957 21 1.96086 20.7893 1.58579 20.4142C1.21071 20.0391 1 19.5304 1 19V12C1 11.4696 1.21071 10.9609 1.58579 10.5858C1.96086 10.2107 2.46957 10 3 10H6M13 8V4C13 3.20435 12.6839 2.44129 12.1213 1.87868C11.5587 1.31607 10.7956 1 10 1L6 10V21H17.28C17.7623 21.0055 18.2304 20.8364 18.5979 20.524C18.9654 20.2116 19.2077 19.7769 19.28 19.3L20.66 10.3C20.7035 10.0134 20.6842 9.72068 20.6033 9.44225C20.5225 9.16382 20.3821 8.90629 20.1919 8.68751C20.0016 8.46873 19.7661 8.29393 19.5016 8.17522C19.2371 8.0565 18.9499 7.99672 18.66 8H13Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                              stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><\/path>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3418\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"><\/rect>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"No\"\n                value=\"no\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">No<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-down\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3423)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M16 0.999995H18.67C19.236 0.989986 19.7859 1.18813 20.2154 1.55681C20.645 1.9255 20.9242 2.43905 21 3V10C20.9242 10.5609 20.645 11.0745 20.2154 11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n            <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <form class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form\">\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--positive\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Easy to understand\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can help seek fair compensation on your behalf\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Accident and injury claims are complex and insurance carriers have lawyers on their side\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions about your accident. Many attorneys offer free consultations.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL3905\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                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