No. You do not have to accept the first offer, and early offers are often lower than the claim may be worth.

No. You can contact an attorney before the police report is ready, and the firm can often help request it later.

Most personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee, which means attorney fees are paid from the recovery rather than upfront.

Yes. Insurance companies look closely at the timeline after a crash — a long gap between the accident and your first visit lets them argue you were not badly hurt or that your injuries came from something else. Seek care as soon as symptoms appear.

No. Liability pays people you injure. Your own injuries are covered by the at-fault driver's liability coverage — or by your own med-pay and uninsured motorist coverage when theirs falls short.

Not always. Coverage depends on policy limits, exclusions, deductibles, and optional coverages, not just the premium amount.

Generally yes. When the at-fault driver cannot be identified, your own UM coverage is often the only realistic source of compensation for your injuries.

Plan extra time, take rest breaks, avoid distractions, check the vehicle, and slow down in heavy traffic or construction zones.

UM/UIM coverage may apply when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover your injuries.

Generally two years from the date of injury — but claims against government entities require a notice in as little as six months, and waiting makes evidence harder to preserve. Confirm your specific deadline with an attorney.