Many accident injury attorneys offer a free consultation. This is an opportunity to ask questions and determine if the attorney is a good fit for your case.
Insurance companies often claim that injuries from accidents are pre-existing conditions. Seeing an attorney early on can avoid this type of defense.
- After an Accident
In a minor car accident case where there are few injuries and minimal damage to the vehicle, a personal injury lawyer may not be needed. However, in many cases, a lawyer can make it easier for the victim to focus on healing and reduce the stress of dealing with insurance agencies that don’t always have the victims’ best interests at heart.
An attorney can also help determine fault. They will ask detailed questions about the accident and review the information from the police report, witness statements, medical records, and other relevant documentation.
In addition, they will perform a thorough liability analysis by reviewing applicable statutes, case law, and other legal precedent. This helps them build a compelling argument to support a claim for compensation from the at-fault driver. This process is much faster and more effective when the lawyer starts working on the case as soon as possible after the accident. The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit is 3 years.
- After a Medical Visit
When you receive medical treatment for your injuries after an accident, make sure to document each visit. This includes x-rays, tests, and prescriptions as well as travel expenses to your appointments. Keeping good records of your health care can help your personal injury lawyer build a strong case on your behalf.
Your attorney will review your medical history and your accident circumstances to understand how your injuries affect you. They will also request narrative medical reports from your treating physicians. These will describe your injuries, treatment, initial diagnosis and prognosis, as well as any permanent impairments.
Your attorney can help you avoid making statements that could be construed as admissions of fault or culpability. Your lawyer can also advise you on how to respond to questions from the other parties’ insurance company. These are often trick questions designed to lead you into saying something that will diminish the value of your claim. They may also ask you to take a recorded statement from you, which can be damaging.
- After a Settlement Offer
When the insurance company or liable party offers an accident victim compensation to settle their claim, it is generally in their best interests to run it by an experienced personal injury lawyer in Carrollton gabefore accepting. This can help victims understand the total value of their case and whether or not the offer is fair.
When calculating your damages, your lawyer will take into account any expenses you have already incurred as well as the costs of any future expenses. They will also factor in how your injuries have affected your work and quality of life.
It may be difficult to know how your injuries will impact you in the long-term until a doctor has determined that you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). If you accept a settlement before this point, it is possible that you could miss out on compensation for any future treatments and other expenses you will likely experience. This is a reason why it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
- After a Trial
Whether you are considering filing a lawsuit or just working with the insurance company, it is always a good idea to consult with an attorney early on. Insurance companies are not looking out for the best interest of accident victims; they’re in business to make money and save themselves costs by nickel-and-diming you wherever possible, often times to your detriment. An experienced personal injury lawyer can stand up to these tactics and negotiate a fair settlement for you.
The value of your case is determined by a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries and the financial losses you suffered as a result of those injuries. However, calculating the value of your damages can be difficult without deep diving into your specific situation. Memories fade, witnesses move away, and evidence may be lost or destroyed over time. Having a personal injury lawyer can help you collect all the damages you are entitled to for your injuries, pain and suffering, and financial losses.