Collision Result in Back & Neck Injuries
In this recent client victory, Shane Smith sat down with attorney Darrion Holloway of Shane Smith Law to discuss a case that highlights two important realities after a serious car accident: insurance companies rarely make it easy, and sometimes a client’s own insurance coverage is essential to full compensation.
How the Crash Happened
The client, referred to here as LB, was driving to the grocery store when another driver ran an intersection and T-boned her on the driver’s side. The collision was violent and completely out of her control. Liability was clear from the start, as the other driver caused the crash by blowing through the intersection.
The impact caused significant damage to LB’s vehicle, with property damage totaling approximately $7,000 to $8,000. While the car damage was substantial, the more lasting consequences were the physical injuries LB suffered.
Injuries and Medical Treatment
Immediately after the crash, LB experienced neck and lower back pain. In the days that followed, she also developed shoulder pain. Over the next eight to nine months, she underwent consistent medical treatment to address these injuries.
Her care included chiropractic treatment and evaluation by an orthopedic specialist. Ultimately, her doctors recommended trigger point injections to help resolve ongoing pain in her back and shoulder. Thankfully, this treatment was effective, and LB began to feel significant relief.
A Long Road With the Insurance Company
Although fault was never disputed, the insurance company did not readily agree on the value of LB’s injuries. Negotiations focused heavily on damages, medical treatment, and what constituted fair compensation.
After more than a year of persistence, the legal team was able to secure the full policy limits from the at-fault driver’s liability insurance. However, even that was not enough to fully compensate LB for her medical bills, pain and suffering, and overall disruption to her life.
Using Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Fortunately, LB carried underinsured motorist coverage through her own auto insurance policy. This coverage exists for situations exactly like this, when the at-fault driver’s insurance is not enough.
The Shane Smith Law team pursued an underinsured motorist claim, carefully laying out LB’s medical expenses, ongoing pain, and the reality that the liability limits fell short. As Darrion Holloway explained, even when dealing with your own insurance company, negotiations are still required.
Insurance companies, even your own, often require strong documentation and persistence. After going back and forth and clearly presenting the facts, the underinsured carrier agreed to pay additional compensation, helping LB reach a fair overall recovery.
A Challenging Time Made Easier
This case came at a particularly difficult moment in LB’s life. She was in the middle of moving from North Carolina to Georgia and starting a new job when the accident occurred. Managing medical treatment, insurance claims, and a major life transition all at once would have been overwhelming on her own.
By stepping in and handling both the liability and underinsured claims, the legal team was able to be LB’s voice and advocate during a stressful period. In the end, she was ecstatic with the result and relieved that she did not have to fight the insurance companies herself.
Key Takeaways From This Case
One of the biggest lessons from this case is the importance of persistence. Insurance companies rarely offer fair compensation right away, whether they insure the at-fault driver or you.
Another critical point is understanding underinsured motorist coverage. Many people worry that using their own insurance will raise premiums or create problems. As Darrion Holloway explained, this coverage is something clients pay for every month, and using it after a crash that is not their fault does not increase premiums. It exists to protect you when other insurance falls short.
Final Thoughts
This client victory shows how experienced legal guidance, patience, and a clear understanding of insurance coverage can make a real difference after a serious crash.
If you have been injured in a car accident and are unsure how insurance coverage applies to your situation, help is available. You can also learn more by requesting a free copy of The Victim’s Survival Guide to Car Accidents
If you are in pain, call Shane at 980-999-9999 to speak with the team at Shane Smith Law
