You’re driving to pick up your child from school when you’re hit from behind. It’s minor-neither car has any damage. You decide to get their information just in case, but your car is fine. You don’t need to make a claim. No big deal.
But then the next day, your neck starts hurting. You start googling, and there it is: Whiplash. Your car may not have been damaged in that accident, but your neck muscles were. You’d like to just wait it out, but the pain is severe. You need to see a doctor or a chiropractor. Do you have to make a claim for such a small incident?
You do. Your insurance-car, health, or otherwise-clearly states that you must inform your insurer if you are injured by another party. It’s not a choice; it’s a legal obligation. Even if it was a minor accident-like that bumper tap in the school parking lot-if you are seeking medical attention because of it, you have to let your insurer know why.
The reason you have to tell your insurer is because if you were injured by the negligence of another party, then your insurer has the right to go after that party for they money they spent treating you for injuries. If you get a settlement from that individual, then you are then required to pay that insurer back as well.
At Bouchillon, Crossan & Colburn, L.C., our attorneys have more than 35 years dedicated to giving clients the attention, advice, support and empowerment they need to effectively meet their goals. We are committed to the principle that all persons shall have equal justice under the law. If you or a loved one has been injured and is seeking a qualified personal injury attorney, contact our Huntington, West Virginia office to speak with an attorney about your case, or call 304-521-4636.