Gelb & Gelb, P.C.

Generally, it is not possible in Washington, DC, Maryland or Virginia to recover in an motor vehicle accident if the claimant is contributorily negligent. However, there are exceptions, which is why anyone injured in an accident should reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer. There are certain legal theories that may allow the claim to proceed.

Your premiums cannot be raised if your not at fault in an accident. Insurers that attempt to raise the premiums of their insured who are not at fault can be disciplined by the state's insurance commisioner or superintendant. In addition, if a claimant has first party medical benefits or wage loss reimbursement available, they pay premiums to have that converage, so not using it would make little sense.

There are a number of studies widely available online that show that claimants who hire a lawyer recover, on average, up to five times as much money as claimants that handle their claim without the benefit of an attorney. Beyond that, experienced personal injury lawyers are aware of all of the deadlines that must be met in order to pursue a claim, and can file any necessary paperwork on behalf of their client to preserve their claims. Lawyers can also help coordinate medical treatment, and if available, help their client get reimbursed for their lost wages even before the liability claim has concluded.