If you are injured in an auto accident, then the ensuing auto accident claim may be different from a regular auto accident. Below are some of the things you should know about road-rage auto accident claims.
1. Coverage Denial
One of the worst things about following a road-rage accident claim is that you might not get coverage from the defendant's insurance company. This is unfortunate because insurance coverage is the primary source of compensation money in case of an auto accident.
However, many insurance companies include language that excludes intentional injuries. Therefore, if someone intentionally causes you injury with their car, there is proof of intentional conduct. The driver's insurance company might not come to the rescue. Don't assume that this is the case; insurance policies differ so always proceed with your claim unless or until it is denied.
Note that any compensation you may receive will be limited to the damages that the insured caused by their car. If you got out of the case and fought, the insurance company won't compensate you for the damages that occurred out of the car.
2. Compensation Without Insurance
If you are lucky, you may be able to get your compensation even if the defendant's insurance company denies coverage for the same. If the defendant has some assets, you may be able to get the court's help in using the assets as compensation.
3. Criminal Case as Evidence
Road rage is a crime; each state has its own way to charge the liable driver with assault and battery. What is more, the state can instigate the criminal charges without your prodding. If that happens, you may use the criminal charges as proof of liability in your auto accident claim. It's even better if the defendant gets convicted before your auto accident lawsuit is over, which is possible since criminal cases tend to proceed faster than civil cases. A criminal conviction can boost your case tremendously.
4. Possibility of Punitive Damages
If the court finds the defendant liable for your damages, it may also prefer punitive damages against the defendant. Punitive damages are possible in cases where a defendant is found to have acted intentionally or recklessly to cause another person's injury. Road rage fits the description and is likely to attract punitive damages.
As you can see, pursuing a road-rage accident claim is not such a straightforward affair. Hopefully, an auto accident lawyer can help you with the process so that you can get your damages. To begin the process, reach out to services like Buckley Law Office.
