What to Do If You’re Sued After a Car Accident

Getting into a car accident is stressful enough—but being sued afterward can feel overwhelming. Whether or not you believe you were at fault, receiving a lawsuit can trigger a wave of uncertainty and concern about your financial future. Fortunately, auto insurance is designed to help protect you in these situations. Understanding how the legal process works, what steps to take immediately and how your insurance coverage comes into play can make a significant difference in the outcome.

A Guide for Handling Car Accident Lawsuits

First, don’t ignore the lawsuit. Once you receive legal documents, notify your auto insurance provider immediately. Most policies include liability coverage, which means your insurer may be obligated to defend you in court and may cover damages up to your policy limits.

Your insurance provider will typically assign a lawyer to your case, gather evidence and attempt to settle the claim. If a settlement isn’t reached, the case may go to trial. If the court finds you liable and the judgment exceeds your policy limits, you could be personally responsible for the remaining amount.

It’s important to understand that even if you believe you weren’t at fault, you can still be named in a lawsuit. Your attorney will typically work to prove your lack of negligence. In some cases, especially if criminal charges are involved (e.g., DUI), you may need both a civil and a criminal defense attorney.

If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own policy may include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which can help cover your losses.

To protect yourself, always do the following:

• Cooperate with your insurer and legal team.

• Avoid discussing the case publicly or on social media.

• Keep records of all communications and documents.

Learn More

For auto insurance guidance, contact Diamond Insurance Agency.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.