Did you know that according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk-driving crashes kill approximately 37 people in the United States? It means that one person dies every 39 minutes due to a car accident. This statistic show the pressing need for more responsible driving behavior to prevent of these accidents and deaths.
Irvine car accident lawyer Matthew R. Price says that drivers must adhere to all traffic rules, including giving way to pedestrians when they have the right-of-way. A vehicular accident can alter one’s life in just a few seconds. Aside from physical injuries sustained in an accident, victims will face additional losses such as monetary compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and loss of income.
Let’s analyze what factors you should look for in a car accident lawyer so you can get fair compensation after filing for your injury.
Understanding Your Rights
After your involvement in a car accident, make sure you understand your rights in claiming what you deserve.
You should prioritize your health and seek medical attention immediately.
Car accident lawyer Kevin Cheney says that it is crucial to seek legal counsel immediately once your condition stabilizes because you only have a limited time to file a personal injury case against the driver. You are also given a short amount of time to file an auto insurance claim.
If you weren’t injured or if your injuries are minor ones, you can secure evidence from the accident scene. Take photographs, gather witness information, and obtain a copy of the police station report.
You have the right to contact your insurance company regarding your claim. It is recommended to consult a car accident lawyer before disclosing all the details to your insurers.
Dealing with the Claim Process
You can break down the process of post-accident claims into manageable pieces to make it simpler to handle.
Collect all necessary documents relevant to your accident, including medical diagnosis and police report.
A car lawyer will initiate negotiations on the issues with the insurance companies.
Assessing Injury and Damages
Determine the degree of your injuries and gather evidence to support a strong lawsuit. Medical records, including all medical invoices and medical history of attending doctors, can show the extent of your injuries.
Take into account the expenses incurred in car rental or other alternate transportation while the vehicle is under repair.
Start a journal and write down how your injuries had physically and emotionally impacted you. Your daily activities following the accident can serve as important supporting evidence.
Negotiation Strategies
You need to be able to provide documents for your medical expenses and pay slip that shows how much you lost because you weren’t able to report to work after the accident.
Determine the minimum settlement rate you can accept. This helps you be clear with negotiations without having to feel pressured to take an unfair deal. Explain your reason behind the compensation amount by enumerating the tangible and intangible losses.
Your lawyer will assist you throughout the negotiation process.
Choosing the Right Lawyer
You need a car accident lawyer with expertise in handling car accidents. Their experience will be very helpful in dealing with complicated legal processes. Investing in a car accident lawyer will give you someone who will remind you of important deadlines and help prevent costly mistakes that can harm your case.
Schedule a number of initial interviews so you can understand how the lawyer handles cases. Research their employment history and success rate. You should also observe how they communicate with you during your consultation.
Do not choose a car accident lawyer without properly researching their skills and experience. A thorough assessment of the lawyer’s capability allows you to find a legal representative who best fits your case.