Every day, people are injured while others keep losing their lives due to negligent drivers. Among the reasons for their negligence include drunk driving, using phones while on the road, and recklessness. If you or a loved one is a car accident victim, you can get compensation for the injuries caused with the help of a car accident lawyer. Meanwhile, you might have a few questions after the dreadful ordeal. Here are a few FAQs to help with some clarity.

Who Is Allowed To File For A Car Accident Claim?

Generally, you or a close relative are allowed to file a lawsuit. If your injuries are not severe and your doctor has permitted you to move around, you can file the lawsuit yourself. However, if you have suffered deep cuts, broken limbs, spinal cord injuries, amputations, and head injuries, it is best to let a family member help you. Family members can also file for a car accident claim if the victim is dead or a minor but with the help of a lawyer.

How Can One Prove The Guilty Party In An Accident?

If the driver at fault was drunk or reckless, they could be charged with a criminal offense or a civil case. In the first scenario, you have to prove that the driver is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. However, in a civil case, you only need ample evidence showing the other party's fault. Without ample evidence for the criminal charges, you still have a high chance of winning the civil charges.

What Kind Of Evidence Should One Collect For A Car Accident?

While you can collect evidence by yourself, it is best to let an accident injury lawyer do it on your behalf since they have done it before. Among the pieces of evidence your lawyer will collect photos from the scene, eyewitness testimonies, police reports, past criminal records of the driver if any, CCTV footage, blood, urine, and breath tests.

Should the accident involve a commercial vehicle, the other driver's employer might also be held liable for the accident. However, you will need enough evidence proving the company's fault. For example, if they have a poor driving record, you can use it to your advantage. 

How Are Compensations Awarded?

Two major factors play a role in determining your claim amount: the type of accident and the extent of the injuries. Usually, you will need a car accident lawyer to help you get compensation to cover your medical expenses and cover any property damage. In other instances, you can file a claim for emotional distress. Also, if the injuries will result in future medical bills or if a person passes on, you can get compensated.

Injuries are tough to deal with. Not only will you be incapacitated to work, but you also have hospital bills to pay. Therefore, you need someone such as an accident lawyer to help you with the negotiations. To learn more, contact a company like the law office of Timothy M. O'Donovan.