An Auto Accident Attorney Can Help You Build Your Case
If you've suffered injuries in an accident you could be entitled to compensation. An experienced attorney for auto accidents will help you establish your case to maximize the amount of money you receive.
When selecting an attorney ensure that they have experience in bringing cases to trial when necessary. Insurance companies are more likely to give fair settlements if they know their lawyers have proven track records of success.
What to Do Following A Crash
Obviously, the first thing to do following a crash is make sure you and your passengers are OK. The next step is to call 911 so the police can arrive at the scene. This gives them the opportunity to record statements from all parties involved in the accident and capture photos of the accident scene before any evidence is removed or destroyed.
If you are able relocate your vehicle to the other side of a road to avoid further damage. Make sure you turn on your hazards lights and put up flares or reflective emergency triangles to alert other drivers. You may also want to move your vehicle if it's located in the middle of an intersection with a lot of traffic or blocking traffic.
If you can, collect names, addresses, phone numbers and insurance information from other people involved in the collision. This includes drivers and the owners of any other vehicles or other items which were damaged in the collision. Get contact information for witnesses as their testimony may be vital to your case.
If you don't have a lawyer, it's important to be mindful when talking to anyone on the scene of an accident. This is because everything you say can be used against you in court later. If auto accident attorneys santa clara contact the other driver's insurance company prior to hiring a lawyer be cautious about what you say as the insurance company may attempt to convince you to settle for an unimportant amount.
Gathering Information
Car accidents are stressful for the victims. They could suffer serious injuries which require medical and rehabilitation treatments and result in loss of income. They also face significant expenses in the event of property damage which includes their vehicles.
A reputable lawyer for auto accidents will help you collect all the evidence necessary to support your claim and losses. This will include police records as well as medical records and other evidence to support your claims. Your lawyer will also go over any physical evidence, such as photos and videos. This will help your case when it's time to file a lawsuit or go to court.
Insurance companies are not eager to pay for losses incurred in accidents which is why they often look for inconsistencies in your account or attempt to confuse you when discussing your injuries. This is why you should always consult with a lawyer prior to submitting an oral or written statement. Your attorney will deal with the insurance companies on behalf of you and ensure that you're not misled or tricked to accept a bargain.
In addition to logging your losses, a knowledgeable lawyer who has handled car accidents will take into consideration the ways the crash has affected your life and ability to work. This may include current and future medical expenses as well as emotional and psychological effects like anxiety and post-traumatic stress. They will also examine all possible sources of compensation including the driver responsible and the manufacturer of the defective product and government entities like the city of New York, or a state agency.
In need of medical attention
Even if the injuries don't appear to be serious, it's still essential to go to the hospital or see a doctor as quickly as you can. A quick medical examination can ensure that your injuries are all identified and treated. They may also provide medical reports that are crucial to your case.
Medical records are also crucial in proving non-economic damages like pain and suffering. It can be difficult to obtain copies of these documents due to the fact that hospitals and doctors have a limited resources. They do not prioritize the transfer of medical records to attorneys or patients.
It is also important to not communicate with insurance companies except to provide basic information. Instead send all communications to your attorney. Our lawyers are accessible 24 hours a day and 7 days per week and 365 days a year to assist you with any questions you have.
How to File a Claim
If you're seeking compensation from the insurance company of the at-fault party or filing a lawsuit to hold a negligent party accountable for your injuries A NYC car accident attorney can help you navigate the claims process. These professionals are experienced in dealing with insurance companies, and are expert negotiators. They will fight for you to get the maximum amount of compensation for your losses.
Your lawyer will draft and file all necessary paperwork, which is critical to ensuring the success of your claim. Additionally, they will ensure that you don't fail to meet any deadlines important to you like the statute of limitations. An attorney can help you avoid making mistakes that could harm your case. For example, revealing information to an insurance company prior hiring a lawyer or putting too much blame on yourself in your personal statements.
An experienced car accident lawyer can assist you in pursuing damages to the full extent of your losses, including economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are those with a dollar value such as medical bills or lost wages. Other damages, such as pain and suffering, are harder to quantify but may be just as important to your recovery as the more measurable losses. This type of damage compensates you for the effect of the accident on your life. It could also include the effects of the accident on your family, hobbies, and your ability to work.