When to Call an Attorney After a Car Accident
If a lawyer calls you after an accident, they have likely received your contact information through unethical methods, said Keith Watters of Keith Watters & Associates. These types of lawyers are considered “runners” or “solicitors” who will likely resell your case if you contract services with them.
These types of lawyers are considered “runners” or “solicitors” who will likely resell your case if you contract services with them. “If an attorney calls you, they probably got the information improperly from the police or hospital,” Watters said.
“If an attorney calls you, they probably got the information improperly from the police or hospital,” Watters said. “There are a lot of payoffs in this field and if a lawyer is willing to pay for information to get a client, that is a sign right there that the person is probably unethical.”
The following is a list of the top ten things you should do if you are in an automobile accident:STOP. Never drive away from the scene of an accident, even a minor one.PROTECT THE SCENE. ... CALL THE POLICE. ... MAKE AN ACCURATE RECORD. ... TAKE PICTURES. ... EXCHANGE INFORMATION. ... REPORT THE ACCIDENT. ... SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION.More items...
Go to the nearest police station and file a report as soon as possible after the accident. Most states allow up to 72 hours to make a police report, but laws vary by state. It's crucial you document the accident with a police report in case you're sued by the other driver, says Holeman. Get a copy of the police report.
Even if you know the accident was your fault, don't say sorry or admit guilt at the scene as your insurer might have a clause about it. Exchange details with the other's involved and get in touch with your insurer to report the incident.
If you are involved in a collision, stop your car at or near the collision scene. If you can, move your car off the road so you do not block traffic. Protect yourself and others from oncoming traffic. Failure to stop at the scene of a collision in which you are involved can result in your arrest warrant.
If the accident you were involved in caused any severe injury that required you to go to a doctor, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer about your legal options. Attorneys can also help in accidents that result in fatalities.
Even if your injuries do not seem serious, it is best to have them checked by a doctor in case you have an injury that does not seem obvious. Ensure that you keep any documentation related to your injuries as proof of any expenses accrued as a result of the accident.
A personal injury lawyer can also help in the event an insurance company is acting in bad faith.
If you need an expert to review anything legal you may be confused about in general. If you generally want to seek advice in settling a claim, you can contact a personal injury lawyer to help you navigate the settlement.
If you do not follow the doctor’s instructions, an insurance company can argue that your injuries were not as severe as you claimed them to be.
You should make sure to write down the other driver’s name, license number, insurance information, and contact information. You should give the other driver your information for their needs too. You can also exchange information with anyone who was a witness to the accident.
There is also often a statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This means that you will not be able to file a claim to receive compensation for your injuries or loss after a certain period.
Nobody plans to be involved in a car crash, but it happens more often than it should. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, you should call a lawyer immediately – even if your injuries are minor or you’re sure that your insurance company will pay for your vehicle’s damage.
When you have a personal injury attorney by your side right from the start, you may find that everything proceeds more smoothly – and you may even be able to avoid a lawsuit entirely.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a car accident, we can help. Give us a call at 818-230-8380 as soon as you’re able. We’ll be happy to give you the legal advice you need.
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While it is your inalienable right to represent yourself without a lawyer, the bigger question is, what opportunities are you foregoing by not hiring one? Personal injury lawyers have the training, experience, skills, and insight to handle your settlement or civil court award strategically.
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