Find a Motor Vehicle Accidents -- Plaintiff Lawyer Continued…

Common Questions and Answers If you think you've been the victim of a negligent motorist, you may be entitled to recover damages. However, you probably have many questions. Below are some common questions faced by many of today's accident victims: - Should I hire an attorney or trust that my insurance company will take care of it? If you have suffered any kind of injury as a result of an automobile accident, it is important to bear in mind that any insurance company involved is going to want to keep costs to a minimum. The company will most likely promise to pay your vehicular and medical costs in exchange for you signing a release form. While this may seem like an attractive offer, accident victims should know that it is very common for medical symptoms to appear a considerable time after the initial trauma has occurred. Once one signs the insurance company's release form, however, the matter is considered final. If problems arising from the accident should develop, the victim will have no legal right to pursue payment from the insurer. In other words, all additional expenses relating to the accident become the burden of the victim. An attorney is there to protect your legal rights from the beginning and to ensure that every accident victim receives fair compensation for their pain and suffering. Before signing anything, you should always consult with an attorney so that you can, at least, make an informed decision. - Will I be able to afford the services of an attorney? Most attorneys do not charge a fee for an initial consultation. In personal injury cases, once you choose representation, the attorney is generally paid on a split contingency basis, which means that the fees will not be paid until a fair settlement or judgment has been obtained from the insurance company and/or any other accountable parties. From there, all medical bills and other costs incurred will also be settled in full. - How long will it take to receive my settlement? Your attorney will always advise you not to settle your claim until your doctor is certain that your recovery is complete. This is because once you receive your settlement, you will have no recourse to further compensation for symptoms that may develop down the line. It is important to be patient and wait for your doctor's final report on your condition before beginning negotiations on your claim. Be Prepared With A “Just In Case” Plan of Action Unfortunately, many drivers aren't prepared for unforeseen circumstances like car accidents. The following tips will not only help protect your vehicle; they just may save your life. Always carry a cell phone. Keep a pen, paper, and disposable camera in the glove compartment for taking notes and pictures at the scene of an accident. Have a card on hand that lists all your medical conditions and allergies in the event that you are seriously injured and are unable to communicate with medical personnel. When shopping for a new car, be sure to check out its crash test scores with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Remember, it's not all about comfort and style. Safety should always be one of your main concerns . By Lindsay Rech