Plain-English definitions: statute of limitations, comparative fault, UM/UIM, lien, contingency fee, and more.
WreckMatch connects accident victims with experienced personal injury attorneys in their state at no upfront cost. We are a legal referral service operated by WreckMatch LLC — not a law firm — and we do not provide legal advice.
Plain-English definitions for accident victims. Not legal advice.
Term
Meaning
Statute of limitations
Deadline to file a lawsuit — often ~2 years for car accidents, varies by state.
Comparative fault
Your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault; some states bar recovery at 50%+.
Contingency fee
Attorney paid only if you win — typically a percentage of settlement.
UM/UIM
Uninsured / underinsured motorist coverage on your policy.
Recorded statement
Insurer interview that can be used against you — often best delayed until counsel reviews.
Demand letter
Attorney's written settlement request to the insurer.
Lien
Hospital or insurer right to be repaid from settlement proceeds.
Spoliation
Destruction of evidence (e.g., truck ECM data) — can trigger sanctions.
FMCSA
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration — regulates commercial trucks.
Soft tissue
Whiplash, sprains — insurers often dispute these injuries.
FAQ
Call 911 if injured, document the scene, exchange insurance, seek medical care within 24 hours, and avoid recorded statements before understanding your rights.
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WreckMatch connects accident victims with experienced personal injury attorneys in their state at no upfront cost. We are a legal referral service operated by WreckMatch LLC — not a law firm — and we do not provide legal advice.
WreckMatch connects accident victims with experienced personal injury attorneys in their state at no upfront cost. We are a legal referral service operated by WreckMatch LLC — not a law firm — and we do not provide legal advice. Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship.
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WreckMatch connects accident victims with experienced personal injury attorneys in their state at no upfront cost. We are a legal referral service operated by WreckMatch LLC — not a law firm — and we do not provide legal advice. Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship.