FAQs
Medical FAQs
Do I need to see a doctor even if I feel fine after my accident?
Yes!
Many car accident injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. Whiplash, soft tissue damage, and even concussions can take hours or days to manifest. Seeing a doctor right away creates documentation that links your injuries to the accident, which is critical for your claim.
Delaying treatment gives insurance companies reason to question whether the accident caused your injuries.
What if I don't have health insurance or can't afford medical care?
You can still get treatment!
MAA connects you with doctors who work on a lien basis, meaning you receive care now and payment comes from your settlement later. You don’t pay anything upfront. This ensures you get the medical attention you need without worrying about immediate costs.
Can I use my regular doctor for accident injuries?
While you can see your regular doctor, they may not specialize in accident injuries or understand the documentation needed for your claim.
MAA connects you with doctors who specialize in treating car accident injuries and know how to properly document everything for insurance and legal purposes.
What types of doctors treat car accident injuries?
Common specialists include:
- Chiropractors for neck and back injuries
- Orthopedic doctors for bone and joint damage
- Pain management physicians for chronic pain
- Physical therapists for rehabilitation
- Neurologists for head injuries and concussions
- Primary care doctors for overall assessment and coordination
How long should I continue treatment after my accident?
Continue treatment until your doctor says you’ve reached maximum medical improvement.
Stopping treatment too early can hurt your claim—insurance companies argue that if you stopped treatment, you must not have been that injured. Your doctor will determine the appropriate treatment length based on your specific injuries and recovery progress.
What is maximum medical improvement (MMI)?
Maximum medical improvement (MMI) means you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to from your injuries.
It doesn’t necessarily mean you’re 100% healed—it means your condition has stabilized and further treatment won’t significantly improve your condition.
Your doctor determines when you’ve reached MMI. This is an important milestone because it’s typically when settlement negotiations begin, as both you and the insurance company now know the full extent of your injuries, treatment costs, and any permanent limitations you’ll live with.
Will my health insurance cover accident-related medical care?
It depends on your policy.
Some health insurance plans cover accident injuries, while others exclude them or require you to use other coverage first. MAA helps you understand what coverage applies and can arrange treatment on a lien if your health insurance won’t cover accident care.
What if the insurance company sends me to their doctor?
Insurance companies often request independent medical examinations (IMEs) with doctors they choose.
Remember, these doctors work for the insurance company, not you. You should still continue seeing your own doctors and document everything. Your attorney can advise you on how to handle IME requests.
How does MAA help me get medical care after my accident?
MAA connects you with doctors who specialize in accident injuries and can see you quickly—often same-day.
We arrange treatment on a lien if needed, so you pay nothing upfront.
We also coordinate with your attorney to ensure your medical records properly support your case.
One call to 833-847-1622 gets you connected with the right medical care.
Legal FAQs
Do I really need a lawyer for my car accident case?
If you’ve been injured, yes.
Insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize what they pay you. An attorney levels the playing field. They know how to calculate the true value of your case, including future medical costs and pain and suffering that you might not consider.
Studies show that accident victims with attorneys receive significantly higher settlements than those who handle claims alone.
How much does a personal injury lawyer cost?
Most personal injury attorneys work on contingency, which means you pay nothing upfront.
They only get paid if you win your case—typically a percentage of your settlement. If you don’t receive compensation, you don’t owe attorney fees.
This arrangement means everyone can afford quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
When should I contact a lawyer after my accident?
As soon as possible.
Evidence disappears, witnesses forget details, and insurance companies start building their defense immediately. The sooner an attorney gets involved, the stronger your case.
Even if you’re not sure you need a lawyer, a free consultation can help you understand your options and protect your rights from day one.
What does a personal injury lawyer actually do for my case?
Your attorney:
- Investigates the accident
- Gathers evidence
- Handles all communication with insurance companies
- Negotiates your settlement
- Calculates the full value of your claim including future costs
- Coordinates with your medical providers for documentation
- Takes your case to trial if necessary
They handle the legal complexities so you can focus on recovery.
How does MAA choose which attorneys to refer?
We match you with an attorney based on your specific situation and location.
MAA has built relationships with experienced personal injury attorneys who have proven track records handling car accident cases. We only refer attorneys who specialize in personal injury law, have successful case outcomes, communicate well with clients, and work on contingency.
Can I choose my own lawyer instead of using MAA's referral?
Absolutely.
You have the right to hire any attorney you want. MAA’s referral service simply makes it easier by connecting you with vetted attorneys who specialize in cases like yours.
If you already have an attorney in mind or want to shop around, that’s completely your choice. We’re here to help, not pressure.
What's the difference between a settlement and going to trial?
Most car accident cases settle out of court through negotiation between your attorney and the insurance company. Settlements are faster and less stressful.
However, if the insurance company won’t offer fair compensation, your attorney can take your case to trial.
A good attorney will fight for a fair settlement but isn’t afraid to go to court if needed to get you what you deserve.
How long does it take to settle a car accident case?
It varies.
Simple cases with clear liability and minor injuries might settle in a few months. Complex cases with serious injuries, disputed fault, or multiple parties can take a year or longer.
Your case typically can’t settle until you reach maximum medical improvement so the full extent of your injuries and costs is known. Your attorney will give you a realistic timeline based on your specific situation.
Auto FAQs
How does MAA help with auto repair after my accident?
MAA connects you with trusted repair shops that specialize in accident damage and prioritize quality over insurance cost-cutting.
We help you understand your rental coverage and get transportation while repairs happen.
We review estimates to ensure they’re complete and fair. If your car is totaled, we guide you through the valuation process.
We coordinate everything with your attorney so your vehicle claim supports your injury case.
Call MAA at 833-847-1622 for help with your auto repair needs.
Do I have to use the repair shop the insurance company recommends?
No. You have the right to choose your own repair shop.
Insurance companies often push their preferred shops because they have agreements that save the insurer money—but not necessarily in your best interest. These shops may use aftermarket parts or rush repairs to keep costs down.
MAA connects you with quality repair shops that prioritize your vehicle’s proper restoration over insurance company cost-cutting.
What's the difference between OEM and aftermarket parts?
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by your vehicle’s manufacturer and match exactly what came with your car.
Aftermarket parts are made by third-party companies and are usually cheaper but may not fit as well or last as long.
Insurance companies often prefer aftermarket parts to save money. Your repair shop should discuss which parts they plan to use and why it matters for your vehicle’s value and safety.
Will I get a rental car while my car is being repaired?
It depends on your insurance coverage.
Many policies include rental reimbursement, but the coverage has daily limits and time restrictions.
If the at-fault driver’s insurance accepts liability, they should cover your rental.
MAA helps you understand what rental coverage you have, how long it lasts, and how to get a rental car so you’re not stuck without transportation during repairs.
How long will repairs take after my accident?
It varies based on the extent of damage and parts availability.
Minor repairs might take a few days, while major collision damage can take several weeks. Supply chain issues can delay parts, especially for newer vehicles. A reputable shop will give you a realistic timeline and keep you updated on progress.
Don’t let insurance companies pressure you to accept rushed repairs just to save on rental costs.
What happens if my car is totaled?
When repair costs exceed a certain percentage of your vehicle’s value (usually 70-80%), insurance declares it a total loss.
They’ll offer you the actual cash value of your car before the accident. This offer is often lower than what you need to replace your vehicle. MAA helps you understand whether the valuation is fair and coordinates with your attorney to challenge lowball total loss offers if necessary.
What is diminished value and can I claim it?
Diminished value is the decrease in your car’s resale value after an accident, even after proper repairs.
A car with an accident history is worth less than an identical car with a clean history. In many states, you can claim diminished value compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance.
MAA can help you understand if you’re entitled to diminished value compensation and how to pursue it.
What if the repair shop finds more damage after they start work?
This is common. Hidden damage often isn’t visible until repairs begin and parts are removed.
The shop will write a supplement—an additional estimate for the newly discovered damage. They’ll submit this to insurance for approval before proceeding. This is normal and why you shouldn’t let insurance rush you into accepting initial estimates that might be incomplete.
