Even if you are a safe and smart driver, there is always a risk of an accident due to weather conditions and other people on the road. If you have recently been in a car accident, then what steps should you be taking to protect your rights and get compensation for your accident? The truth is that auto collision personal injury claims can be complicated, which is why it’s not a good idea to navigate the settlement without legal advice.
Having an experienced personal injury attorney by your side is one of the best decisions you will make. Your attorney will provide services to build your case, negotiate on your behalf, and maximize the amount of money that you can receive. You need to have a legal advocate – especially because the insurance company will be doing everything they can to minimize the payout.
Immediate Actions: Essential Steps at the Scene of the Accident
There are a few things you should always keep in mind from the moment an accident occurs. It can be hard to think clearly during this time due to the stress and physical pain you might be experiencing. But it’s important to be proactive in these moments so you can prepare for future insurance claims and legal steps.
- Making a Statement: Keep in mind that you have the right to not make a statement to the insurance company. You’ll need to talk to law enforcement and first responders on the scene so they can file the report. But when the insurance company requests a recorded statement, it’s best to consult with an attorney first. Small things that are said in the statement could be used against you.
- Collecting Evidence:In order to build your case, you need as much evidence as possible about the accident. You need to be able to prove fault in the situation to show that the other driver was the cause of the accident. This evidence will be used to build your case and prove that you deserve compensation. If you are unable to collect evidence at the scene, then ask other people for assistance.
- Seek Medical Care:Even if you think that your injuries are minor, you must seek medical care without delay. These medical records document the injuries and show that you need the help of doctors and specialists. Additionally, small injuries can often turn into bigger health issues in the future. Many injuries aren’t immediately apparent.
- Find the Witnesses:Not only do you need to collect information from the other driver and people involved in the accident, but it’s also smart to stay in contact with the witnesses. Ask for their names and phone numbers so that your attorney can reach out to them for information that can contribute to your case.
- Don’t Post Online:Stay off social media. It’s not a good idea to share information online, because the insurance company will be looking for evidence to build their side of the case. Even the smallest details could be used against you. So, it’s best to stay off social media and don’t post details about the accident publicly until after the case is settled.
When to Pursue Legal Help
How do you know when it’s time to hire an expert for an auto collision personal injury claim? If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident, then don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced attorney for help. Most car accident attorneys offer free, no-obligation consultations. You can discuss your case and determine if it is worth pursuing.
If you are questioning whether you need to talk to a personal injury attorney, then you should always schedule the consultation. You deserve to have a legal advocate who can assist with your settlement. Not only do you have medical bills that need to be paid, but a car accident can result in a lot of pain and suffering, lost wages, and other issues that are affecting your overall quality of life.
Keep in mind that there is a statute of limitations that must be met for you to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you procrastinate the filing, then it reduces the likelihood that you will be able to receive the compensation that you deserve. Your attorney will offer the legal advice you need, helping you make the ideal decision based on your unique needs.
FAQ
What evidence should I collect after an accident?
It’s important to collect various forms of evidence, including photos, videos, and written statements. If possible, capture snapshots and video of the accident scene, the damaged vehicles, injuries, and more. Also, collect names, contact information, and insurance details from everyone involved.
What damages can I be compensated for in an auto accident lawsuit?
In an accident lawsuit, compensation is available to cover your medical bills, physical therapy, prescriptions, medical treatments, damage to your property, lost wages, incidental expenses, wrongful death, and emotional distress.
What is the difference between a settlement and a trial?
A settlement happens when both parties negotiate a deal outside of court. Ideally, it’s best to settle the case whenever possible because a settlement reduces legal fees and helps you achieve a faster outcome. If there is a disagreement in the negotiations and the case is taken to court, then you will go through the trial process.
What are my rights as a victim of an auto accident?
Remember that you have the right to pursue legal action. The purpose of a lawsuit is to seek damages for the losses you have incurred as a result of the accident. When another party was negligent or reckless and it caused your injury, then you can exercise your rights to pursue compensation. The best thing you can do is talk to an attorney to learn more about your rights in an auto collision personal injury case.
Talk to the Personal Injury Experts
If you have recently been in a car accident, then it’s time to reach out to a local legal team you can trust. Gainsburgh, Benjamin, David, Meunier & Warshauer, L.L.C. is here to help, offering quality services for filing an auto collision personal injury claim. Call today: (504) 522-2304.
