what to ask a lawyer about car accident

Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Car Accident Lawyer

• Do I Have a Case? This is the first question you should ask. To recover damages from an accident, you have to prove that...
• How Much Do You Charge and What is a Contingency Fee? This is usually one of the most important questions for most car...
• What Court Fees and Costs Will I Be Responsible For? Even if a lawyer charges...

Full Answer

What should I ask for in a car accident?

According to the III, here's the most important information drivers should exchange after an accident:Full name and contact information.Insurance company and policy number.Driver's license and license plate number.Type, color and model of vehicle.Location of accident.

What should you not say in a car accident?

Don't say “I'm sorry” A simple “I'm sorry” can be used to show that you admitted guilt and responsibility for the accident. Even if you mean “I'm sorry you're late for work” or “I'm sorry you are hurt” – try to avoid using the words “I'm sorry”.

What are the qualities of the best car accident lawyer?

The following are key qualities possessed by the best personal injury lawyers.Availability. It is prudent to search for a lawyer who is readily available whenever you require his or her services. ... Professionalism. ... Approachability. ... Sincerity. ... Record of Success.

What are three things you should do when you get into a car accident?

11 Important Steps to Take After a Car CrashDetermine whether anyone is hurt. ... Get yourself and your vehicle out of danger. ... Contact the police. ... Collect important information. ... Document the scene. ... Avoid roadside discussions about responsibility. ... Call a tow truck if needed. ... Call your insurance company.More items...•Jun 21, 2021

Should I get checked out after a car accident?

DO check for any injuries to you or your passengers, then check for injuries with any others involved. If anyone is injured, dial 999 and ask for the police. DO get all passengers out of the vehicle and make sure they're safe.

How long after car accident Do you feel pain?

Mild injuries will usually be apparent right away, such as bruises or cuts. Injuries beneath the skin's surface, like a torn muscle or traumatic brain injury (TBI), can take longer to physically manifest. It can take 24 to 48 hours for initial symptoms to appear and one to two weeks for full delayed pain symptoms.Sep 27, 2021

What are the personality requirements of a personal injury lawyer?

If you're in the important process of deciding on a personal injury attorney for your case, consider the following traits.Seasoned. ... Thorough Investigator. ... Talented Mediator and Litigator. ... Great Listener. ... Limited Practice. ... Continued Education. ... Genuine Care and Compassion.

How long do you have to file a police report after a car accident?

When two cars are involved in a collision and nobody is injured, the drivers may decide to pay for their repairs and to forgo a claim against each other. The police need not be called to the scene of such an accident, but it must be reported - by both drivers - at a police station within 24 hours.

What is the first thing that should be done when accidents happen?

Check if anyone is hurt. ... Make sure to take pictures of the accident. ... Move your vehicle off to the side of the road if possible. ... Let the investigator take command of the situation, and institute measures to prevent the accident from getting worse. ... Exchange information with the other driver.More items...

How long do you have to report a car accident to your insurance?

within 24 hoursIf you're involved in an accident, you must tell your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurers specify that you must inform them within 24 hours of the incident.

Do I Have to Report the Car Accident?

When you’re involved in a car accident, you want the aftermath done and behind you. The problem is that your car may be seriously damaged, or you were hurt in the accident. In certain situations like this, you may be required to call the police and file a car accident report.

What Do I Say to the Insurance Company?

When dealing with insurers, you may need to be careful about what you say to the insurance company. They may be recording, and they may use anything you say against you. Because of this, it’s often best to tell them you’ve had a car accident and that you may be due a settlement.

What to ask a lawyer about a car accident?

When you meet with a lawyer, the first question you should ask is if you have a case. The attorney will listen to your account of the car accident and review the police report, as well as your medical records, to get a better idea of whether you have a case against the “at-fault” driver. To recover damages, your attorney will need ...

How much do car accident lawyers charge?

Contingent fee lawyers usually charge a percentage of the total settlement, which can be as much as 40 percent or more.

Where is McDivitt Law Firm located?

At McDivitt Law Firm, we have offices conveniently located throughout Greater Colorado in Downtown Colorado Springs, North Colorado Springs, Denver, Aurora, and Pueblo, and our attorneys are ready to assist you at a moment’s notice. After a car accident, know that you are not alone. We offer f ree consultations, so you can better understand your rights and options. Call us today!

What happens if you can't settle your insurance claim?

If you are unable to reach a settlement with the insurance company and your case proceeds to trial, it will take longer for you to receive your money. However, your lawyer will go over all of your legal options with you, so you can make plans for how you will handle bills and expenses while your case is pending.

Can an attorney review an accident?

Plus there are situations when you may only have a small window to file a claim, such as when you are involved in an accident with a government entity. Your attorney should be able to review your accident and inform you of any and all deadlines.

Can an attorney negotiate a settlement with insurance?

Even if you do not wish to file a lawsuit, an attorney can negotiate a better settlement with the insurance company so you receive the money you need to recover. Unfortunately, choosing the right car accident lawyer isn’t always easy. To make the process easier, there are several questions you should ask every attorney before you ultimately choose ...

Can I Expect Compensation for My Injuries?

You may have a feeling that you have the right to compensation after a crash, though it can be difficult to know for sure, especially if the other party involved is denying liability. A lawyer will gather a lot of information about how the accident happened, whether the police issued citations or made arrests, and more.

How Much Compensation Can I Expect?

Many people underestimate the value of their car accident losses. If you never call a lawyer, you may request and accept compensation that is far lower than you deserve. You will likely be surprised by an attorney’s answer regarding the potential value of your claim.

How Much Time Do I Have to Take Legal Action?

The answer to this question will depend on what state you are in and the specific circumstances of your case.

What Is Your Plan for My Car Accident Case?

Each car accident case is unique and each one can follow a different path. Some factors that will affect an attorney’s plan include:

How Do I Pay for My Medical Bills While My Case is Pending?

Car accident claims can take time, and you will watch your bills pile up while your case is pending. You will also have to figure out a way to cover copays and other required expenses so you can receive the treatment you need. There are different options to help you depending on your location and situation.

I Need Medical Treatment for Years to Come. How Will I Cover Those Costs?

Once you receive your settlement, you can pay off your existing medical bills. However, if you need ongoing medical treatment for the foreseeable future, how will you cover those costs? This is a common scenario, as many car accident injuries require months or years of treatment.

What Do You Need from Me?

This is an important question to ask your car accident lawyer for many reasons. First, it shows your willingness to assist and participate in your case when needed. It also informs you of the role you will play in your own case, so there are no surprises down the line.