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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.”
Attorney Daniel Romano told WXYZ that he suspects police officers, emergency responders, and even hospital workers could be turning over personal information to unscrupulous attorneys. “We are getting people solicited the day the accident happens, often within an hour or minutes of the accident.”
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.
In the wake of a car accident, often the last thing on your mind is whether or not you should call a car accident lawyer. After all, you’ve just experienced something traumatic, and a million and one thoughts are racing through your head.
Having insurance is, of course, quite important. But don’t assume the insurance company is on your side. Remember, they are in the money-making business, and if they can pay as little as possible on your claim, then they will strive to do so.
Around three million people are injured in motor vehicle accidents annually in the United States. While not fatal, these injuries can cause lifelong pain and discomfort. The role of an injury attorney is to prove that another person’s negligence caused your injuries so that you can get the compensation you deserve.
Most insurance companies don’t want accident cases to be dragged out in court. They may throw a lowball offer your way to ensure your car accident costs them as little as possible. However, the best lawyer is one who can put a true value on your injuries. This figure is likely to be a lot more than most insurance companies will initially offer.
Fair compensation is all anyone ever asks for, but insurance adjusters are not in the business of being fair. They are in the business of paying out as little as possible during the settlement process.
When the car accident happens! That’s when you should contact an attorney. Never attempt to talk to insurance companies without seeking legal representation first. This is particularly true if you have suffered injuries, believe your injuries are permanent or long-lasting, or if liability is up for debate.
Upon first inspection, pretty much all car accident lawyers look the same. But upon closer inspection, there are some significant differences. During your initial consultation with a lawyer, pay attention to the following areas:
Probably not. Over 90 percent of personal injury claims settle out of court.