Knowing that questions to ask your lawyer during this consultation can make finding the right attorney much easier. These should include:

1) What kind of experience do you have with similar cases?

You need to know how comfortable the lawyer is with cases like yours. While every case is somewhat different, the attorney will likely find some similarities between your case and a case s/he handled previously.

Related questions may include:

• Where did you attend law school?
• How long have you been practicing in Pennsylvania?
• What types of cases do you handle?
• How often do you handle cases similar to mine?
• Can you tell me about a case you handled similar to mine? What was the result?
• Do you have any client testimonials?

2) What would be your strategy for my case?

Most lawyers do not offer specific legal advice in an initial consultation, but s/he should explain the possible approaches to handling your case. S/he may also offer a general overview of the strategy s/he will follow.

Related questions may include:

• What strategies have you used for similar cases in the past?
• How long do you think this case could take using this strategy?
• What are the pros and cons of this strategy?

3) Are there any alternatives to going to court?

Especially in personal injury cases, there is often a good chance you can avoid going to court. A lawyer will usually try to negotiate a fair and just settlement with the insurance company before resorting to filing a lawsuit. Even once you file a suit, mediation and arbitration may be possible. Both of these options can help you avoid going to court.

Related questions may include:

• What percentage of your cases has settled out of court?
• Do you consider yourself an effective negotiator?
• Are you comfortable taking this case to trial if you cannot reach a just settlement?
• Will you prepare my case for court even if you plan to settle out of court?

4) What are my possible outcomes?

Some lawyers may only tell you what you want to hear. The right lawyer, however, will give you an honest look at how your case may conclude. No lawyer can give you an exact value of your case or promise that you will reach an out-of-court settlement, but s/he can offer possibilities based on his/her experience.

Related questions may include:

• Do see us running into any major issues?
• What are our chances of avoiding a lawsuit?

5) Who will actually handle my case?

While you may meet with one lawyer, others in the legal office may work on your case. This often includes other attorneys and paralegals. You will want to know who your point of contact is within the office, and the experience of those working on your case.

Related questions may include:

• Who should I call with questions about my case?
• How often can I expect updates or reports? How will I receive these updates?
• Will you represent me in settlement negotiations and/or court?

6) What is my role in my case?

Attorneys desire different levels of participation from their clients. Your attorney probably will not want you to talk to witnesses or the insurance company without prior approval, but s/he may need you to compile documentation of your injuries and other similar tasks.

Related questions may include:

• What do you need from me to build the strongest possible case?
• What should I avoid in order to win my claim?

7) How much will this cost me?

It is never fun to talk about money, but this is the time to do it. Most personal injury lawyers charge based on contingency. This means you pay nothing until you receive your settlement. There may, however, be another fee structure or additional fees you need to pay.

Related questions may include:

• What is your fee structure? Contingency? Hourly? Flat fee?
• Will there be any additional costs?
• Can you give me an estimate of the total cost of my case?
• Check out our bios to learn more about our team.

Facing criminal charges is daunting. It brings about the possibility of serving jail time. In the same vein, it can affect your reputation, tarnish your character, and put your future at risk even if you’re not convicted. With all the complexities of the criminal justice system and, pending outcomes that impact your future and your freedom, your first concern must be finding a qualified criminal defense attorney that will best represent you.

There are many factors to consider in order to land on the best criminal defense attorney. The below tips will aid in your research and help increase your chance for a favorable outcome.

1) Level of experience

Being accused of a crime is a very serious situation. You want to ensure that the attorney representing you and providing you with legal advice knows the law inside and out. Look for an attorney with experience in all courts (municipal, state, federal, superior) as sometimes jurisdictions of the courts overlap and your case may be heard in more than one court.

Equally as important as the level of expertise is success rate. There is no substitute for real-life experience, and experience without success means very little when you are facing the consequences of a crime. The best attorney has an impressive track record and verifiable success.  

2) Avoid a public defender

It may be enticing to consider a public defender in order to avoid the cost of representation, but typically public defenders are inexperienced and loaded with cases. Because of this, they have very little time to address your case, answer your questions and are less likely to dedicate their attention to fight on your behalf.

3) Local connections

Having an attorney with local connections and established relationships is extremely helpful. Someone well connected will have a better understanding of local procedures, and first-hand experience with judges and prosecutors. They will know who entertains plea bargains, and which ones never consider them.

Armed with this valuable knowledge of the inner workings of the local legal scene, they’ll be more qualified to come up with a winning strategy to change the outcome of your case to the best possible one.

4) Board certification

Board certified criminal defense attorneys are the “best of the best”. You’ll be assured that your lawyer is proficient in the specialty legal field in which you have a legal need. Specializing in criminal defense, having a significant amount of jury trials, and an excellent reputation with judges and prosecutors increases the likelihood of a successful and aggressive defense.

5) In person interview

Researching websites, social media, reviews and testimonials of potential attorneys can provide useful information but nothing beats face-to-face. Take advantage of the free consultation most offer so you can form a personal impression, gauge whether or not the lawyer makes you feel comfortable, and get a sense if they are empathetic to your situation.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and check reviews, ratings, and references. Are they a trusted advisor you feel comfortable around and are you able to speak candidly with them? This is the time they will reveal their willingness to fight hard for you.

6) Accessible and available

Time is of the essence — time lost can mean case lost. Make sure your attorney is available not only to take your initial call, but promptly responds to your inquiries. An accessible and available attorney will arrange initial and subsequent meetings as soon as possible.

7) Fees

An attorney with the lowest fees is not always your best choice. Remember the old adage “you get what you pay for” – it is no different when it comes to legal representation. Subsequently, the highest fees aren’t necessarily in your best interest either. Generally, less experienced attorneys set lower fees, but be mindful when you come across an extremely low hourly rate.

An experienced attorney with a higher hourly rate may be able to resolve a case quicker and more suitable than a novice with a much lower hourly rate, thus being less expensive in the long run.

Bottom line

Be thorough, choose wisely. The imminent outcome and how your life will be once the case is closed depends on it. Invest the time and energy, do the homework and the research in order to select the attorney that is right for you. It is the most critical decision you’ll make, and choosing wisely makes all the difference in how your case will go and what the outcome is.

Fighting a criminal charge is not something you should leave to chance. The outcome of your case can change your entire future and it is important you get a good criminal defense lawyer to help you.

When you find yourself faced with a legal issue, the steps you take next can literally impact the rest of your life. Hiring a legal professional – and doing it the right way – is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.

Not sure how to hire an attorney for your case? You’re in the right place! Keep reading for ten must-know tips that will make hiring an attorney easy.

1. Ask for Recommendations

One of the best ways to find a good attorney is to ask people you trust for recommendations. Start with family and friends – ask if they’ve had a positive personal experience with an attorney in the area of specialty you’re looking for.

If you have a relationship with an attorney who works in a different specialty, he or she may also be able to give you a recommendation. For example, your business lawyer probably can’t help with a personal injury case, but he may be able to refer you to a great personal injury lawyer.

Use these recommendations to create a short list of three to five attorneys who you’ll investigate further before making a decision.

2. Do Online Research

Next, it’s time to hop online and start doing some research about each of the attorneys on your list. Check Google reviews and at least a couple of the lawyer review sites – like Lawyers.com and Justia.

It’s also a good idea to take a look through the lawyer’s website and their social media – including the reviews section. Remember that you can’t please everyone, so don’t put too much weight into one or two bad reviews, but if you start to see a pattern, consider crossing that lawyer off your list.

3. Schedule a Consultation

Once your research is done, narrow down your list to the top three, then call to schedule consultations. Most attorneys will meet with you for at least a brief consultation without charging you.

Pay attention to whether the person who answers the phone is polite and accommodating. When you arrive at the office, notice whether the location is convenient and whether you feel comfortable in the space.

4. Ask the Right Questions

When you sit down with the lawyer, it’s a good idea to have a list of questions prepared. This will ensure that you make good use of the time you have and that you don’t forget anything important.

Some of the questions you’ll want to ask include:

• Do you specialize in cases like mine?
• How long have you been practicing?
• Do you feel that I have a strong case?
• How much do you think my case is worth?
• How often do you take cases to court vs. setting?
• Who will be handling my case?
• How and when will I need to pay?

Look for an attorney who is honest and upfront when answering your questions. Don’t be afraid to take notes, as you’ll want to compare the interviews with each of your top three options and remembering who said what could become a challenge.

5. Assess fees and Costs

You never want to hire an attorney based on cost alone, but, of course, price does matter. Ask the attorney to thoroughly explain their fees, and, if possible, to provide you with a written summary. Don’t feel like you’re “being cheap,” you deserve to know what you’re paying for and how much it’s going to cost you.

6. Review the Payment Arrangements

There are different ways that your attorney might bill you. Options include:

• Contingency fee – the attorney receives a percentage of what you’re awarded if you win your case.
• Flat fee – a set dollar amount for services. This is common for simple things like writing a will or filing a non-contested divorce.
• Hourly rate – this is a set fee per hour. The final cost will depend on the number of hours worked.
• Retainer – this is a fee you pay upfront. Lawyers often use this to pay expenses and fees associated with trying your case.

It’s important to understand how your attorney bills so you know when and how much you can expect to pay. If you don’t ask these questions, you could end up with an unpleasant surprise.

7. Listen to Your Gut

Once you’ve reviewed all of this information and met with each potential attorney, it’s time to evaluate your experience with each and make a final decision. You’ll use logic for most of this evaluation, but it’s also important to listen to your gut. If you have a really great feeling about one attorney that you met with – if you feel like you trust and believe in him or her – then this is a great indication that you’ve made the right choice.

The same goes for a negative feeling. Even if you can’ quite put your finger on it, if there’s something that just doesn’t seem quite right to you, then move on. There are thousands of lawyers out there, so it makes sense to keep looking until you find one that’s a good fit for you.

Hiring an Attorney is a Critical Decision

Follow these tips for hiring an attorney and you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve made an excellent choice. If you need even more information, take a few minutes to scroll through some of our other helpful blog posts!

After your car accident, a car accident lawyer can gather information from the accident, give you legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you pursue compensation for your losses, so you can heal from it and get back to your normal routine.

Car accidents can be traumatic for the victims. From lacerations and bruises to traumatic brain injuries and broken bones, victims may suffer a range of serious injuries, some of which may require several weeks and thousands of dollars in medical and rehabilitative treatments. Harder still is the loss of a loved one in a car accident.

After a crash, recovery should be a priority. However, when you are well enough, you may also want to consider seeking support from a car accident lawyer. On top of the physical and emotional burden from the car accident, you may encounter financial hardship as you deal with medical bills, vehicle repair or replacement costs, and lost wages.

From speed limits to distracted driving laws, state and federally enforced measures promote safety and prevent collisions. Nonetheless, crashes are a common problem throughout the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), projections show that 36,120 people died in car accidents last year.

When someone disobeys local or federal traffic laws or drives recklessly or irresponsibly, they should face the consequences for their actions. This can include traffic tickets, license suspension, fees, and even jail time, depending on the offense and harm caused. They may also be responsible for compensating the victims.

If the liable party is insured and their insurance company covers the incident’s losses, then it may pay the victim for losses such as medical bills and property damage. However, if they are underinsured, uninsured, or their insurance providers’ payout is insufficient, a victim may wish to file a personal injury lawsuit.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

Car accident lawyers can be a valuable resource in any of the above circumstances, as pursuing financial awards for your losses can be a complicated endeavor.

First, the victim must prove who caused the accident and establish the sequence of events and circumstances that contributed to the crash. They will also need to gather evidence to support their claims, which may include eyewitness accounts, police reports, medical reports, and receipts for repairs.

The plaintiff may also need to communicate with insurance companies and the other party or its legal representative. While some personal injury suits resolve with a settlement, it is sometimes necessary to take a claim to civil court.

A car accident lawyer can assist you with:

• Conducting an investigation, reviewing police reports and medical records, and gathering eyewitness testimonies
• Demonstrating the circumstances surrounding the crash, as well as the sequence of events leading up to it
• Proving who was at fault
• Building a case based on the details of the incident
• Establishing a strategy to seek compensation on your behalf
• Communicating with insurance companies, lawyers, and other involved parties on your behalf
• Representing you in negotiations or a court of law, if necessary
• Keeping you updated throughout the process and address any concerns or questions you have

Some cases may be more difficult to investigate than others, like accidents involving rideshare companies, commercial trucks, public transportation, and sanitation vehicles.

In any of these circumstances, there may be more than one liable party or the liable party may be a corporation or city or state government. A car accident lawyer can help ensure you abide by the relevant procedures when it comes to dealing with these kinds of parties.

Statute of Limitations

Every state has statutes of limitations that set deadlines for plaintiffs to file lawsuits against another party, as the Legal Information Institute (LII) defines it. The statute of limitations varies depending on your location and the party against whom you are bringing a claim. For example, the statute of limitations to bring a suit against another civilian may be two or three years, whereas you may have only six months to bring a suit against a local government. The statute of limitations is not the same as the timeframe within which you should file an insurance claim. You should always file a claim or at least notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Some providers specify you must notify them within a “reasonable time” for your claim to be valid. Again, these times may vary across states.

Losses Associated with Car Accidents

Car crashes can result in a variety of losses. This can range from a totaled vehicle to debilitating physical injuries, as well as emotional pain and suffering, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress. A car accident lawyer can help you identify all of the losses you have suffered and what type of compensation you may be eligible to pursue.

You may receive compensation for the following after your car accident:

• Cost to repair or replace property
• Cost of current or reasonably anticipated medical bills
• Lost wages for the time you missed because of your injuries
• Reduced earning capacity if your injuries were so serious you are unable to return to your previous position
• Emotional pain and anguish
• Loss of consortium
• Funeral and burial costs (if a loved one died as a result of their injuries)

Contact Us Today

If you or a family member has suffered as a result of another party’s reckless or negligent driving, a car accident lawyer may be able to help. Seeking financial awards for your injuries, pain and suffering, and other losses may help you avoid further hardship and move on with your life faster. To learn more about what a car accident lawyer can do for you, contact RFH Legal today.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as many as 2.44 million people were hurt in car accidents in 2015 alone.

Whatever the cause of the collision, car accidents tend to have far reaching consequences for those who are involved, often leaving injured parties to grapple with expensive medical bills, while also being forced to take time off from work.

In some tragic cases, injured parties could become permanently disabled, or even lose their lives. 

While recovering damages cannot always compensate an injured party for the trauma that he or she got during an accident, it can go a long way towards helping injured motorists and their families get started on the road to recovery.

Unfortunately, filing a successful claim against the negligent individual or entity who is responsible for a collision can be difficult, as these parties often get representation by large insurance companies with access to significant funds and a host of legal representatives.

Retaining an experienced attorney can play a crucial role in leveling the playing field during trial or settlement negotiations, so we’ve put together a list of tips that could help you in hiring your own lawyer. 

Obtaining Referrals 

When looking for an experienced car accident attorney, it’s often a good idea to look to others for advice. Family members, friends, and co-workers, who may be able to recommend someone who is diligent and well-respected.

You could also ask for a recommendation from an attorney who has represented you in another matter.

Another way to get the contact information is to contact the bar association in your state. They have records of all licensed lawyers in your area. Online searches can also be helpful during this process. 

Researching Law Firms 

Once you have a few names, you may want to consider researching those specific law firms.

Many attorneys post testimonials on their websites submitted by former clients about how the legal team handled their own cases. Similar to an online review, these posts can play a critical role in helping you choose an attorney.

At this point, you should also evaluate each firm’s experience by assessing case results or client recommendations on the website. Taking these steps helps ensure the attorney you work with has handled this type of case before. It also assures they’re in good standing with their state’s bar association.

Meeting with Your Top Choices 

Narrow down the list of law firms that could potentially represent you. Then, you should take advantage of free consultations to speak with the attorneys in person.

This will provide you with an opportunity to discuss the facts of your case. You can also obtain advice on how they would handle your claim. You may also want to ask the following questions:

• Whether he or she has experience with car accident cases;
• The firm’s record of success;
• The fees and costs you can expect to incur if you file a claim;
• The strengths and weaknesses of your own case;
• Whether he or she would personally handle your case, or if it would be by another attorney;
• How long they expect the resolution of the case to take; and
• How often he or she will communicate with you regarding your case’s progress.

Initial consultations also provide a good opportunity to assess the lawyer-client dynamic with each attorney. 

Bringing Important Documentation to Your Consultation 

It’s difficult for an attorney to understand your case if you don’t bring important documentation related to the accident.

This includes any paperwork sent by your insurer. It could also include paperwork from the other party’s insurance provider.

You should also bring a copy of the police report from the accident. Lastly, bring any notes you took about the incident ahead of time.

All of this information can help the attorney determine whether they are the best representative for you. 

Evaluating Your Consultation 

After meeting with potential attorneys, you may want to consider evaluating the answers provided by each lawyer regarding your questions. At this point, it’s also a good idea to address:

• Whether you can afford to pay the attorney’s fees;
• How comfortable you felt during the consultation;
• Whether the attorney has a heavy case load and will be able to address your own case properly; and
• Whether you felt like the attorney has focus on your needs. Or if you felt they were rushing during the consultation.

After addressing these questions, as well as the other information you learned during the consultation, you should have a pretty good idea about your decision. 

Asking Additional Questions 

It’s not uncommon for claimants to think of additional questions after their initial consultations. You shouldn’t be afraid to make note of concerns and share them with your attorney at next meeting.

You could even call and ask the questions right away. The response you receive can also play a crucial role in helping you make your decision. 

Assessing the Law Firm’s Professional Network 

When choosing an attorney to represent you during your own car accident case, it’s also a good idea to ensure that whoever you choose has a solid professional network of experts, as your case will undoubtedly require the testimony of expert witnesses.

Ultimately, you will want an attorney who knows and has experts in a variety of fields, all of whom are knowledgeable, specialize in their particular fields, and are well-respected. 

Communicating with Your Attorney 

Once you have decided on which lawyer to hire, it’s important to ensure that you communicate regularly. Regular communication will help you stay informed about the progress of your case. Plus, any accruing fees or costs.

Hire an attorney who is willing to learn your case inside and out. Then explain the process and progress of your case is important to the outcome of any car accident claim. 

Call Our Legal Team Today 

Initial consultations are free of charge, so please don’t hesitate to call or contact us online today.

See Other Related Articles

• I’ve Been In A Car Accident, Do I Need a Lawyer?
• Driver Error is the #1 Cause of Car Accidents
• Fatal Car Crashes and Wrongful Death
• How Are Truck Accidents Different Than Car Accidents?

The moments following an automobile wreck can be confusing, painful and overwhelming. You could be left with mental or physical injuries from the accident and questions on the best way to move forward. One of the things car accident victims consider is whether to hire a Car Accident Attorney in West Palm Beach. You may wonder if a lawyer is always necessary after a mishap.

The truth is that an Accident attorney plays a vital role when it comes to fighting for your rightful compensation and ensuring your rights are well protected during the claim process. Let’s discuss some of the primary reasons to hire an experienced auto accident lawyer here.

A Good Knowledge of the Law

Unless you have specialized legal training, chances are that you may not know what laws pertain to your specific situation, including comparative fault and the statute of limitations on a personal injury claim. An experienced attorney has a deep understanding of personal injury law. They can help you identify the legal issues and relevant laws related to your incident and help you understand how they are interpreted within the local court system. When you enlist the services of an Injury attorney who clearly understands the law, you increase the odds of winning the case and recovering full compensation for your injuries not discounted justice or insurance company justice.

Handling Insurance Companies

Many car accident victims immediately file claims with their insurance companies. Dealing with insurance companies without legal backup can result in very low and unfair compensation. Remember that the insurance adjuster is more concerned about the profitability of their company rather than offering you the full compensation you deserve for your pain, suffering, and human damages.
An experienced attorney knows how to handle negotiations with insurance companies to help you win the most compensation possible. They know the insurance laws that may impact your accident case and can interpret the provisions of an insurance policy’s language that applies to coverage, exclusions and limitations. All this will increase your odds of getting full  compensation for your neck, back, shoulder, knee, head or other injuries sustained in a car crash. Determining the Amount of Compensation

A proficient accident attorney in West Palm Beach will help the injured person to determine the amount of compensation they are entitled to. The type and amount of compensation a victim is entitled to may change with time and the course of the medical treatment process. An experienced lawyer will ensure the victim receives compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages or income, pain and suffering, car repairs, physical therapy, loss of consortium and other issues. The lawyer may subpoena the health care provider or facility where the treatment was rendered for certified records of the expenses so that they are introduced at arbitration or trial. Proving Liability

A successful auto accident lawsuit depends on whether you can prove liability in court. Proving liability may be trickier than you think. Even if the police and witnesses reports state the other driver was at fault, proving that they were careless enough to breach a duty of care to you can be tough. An Injury lawyer will work to prove the following four element of fault or negligence:

• You were owed  a duty of care by the at-fault party
• The at-fault party breached this duty
• You sustained injuries due to the breach of duty
• You suffered losses due to your injuries

There are many factors that contribute to winning a car accident lawsuit. It is highly advisable that you enlist the services of an accident attorney who is experienced in personal injury claims. An experienced accident lawyer can provide references to cases and citations that support your cause. Supporting Your Claim With Evidence

Your car accident claim is only as strong as the evidence you can provide. By carrying out a thorough investigation of your accident, your lawyer will collect sufficient evidence that connects your injuries to the accident. This evidence will be used to prove your claim to insurers and in court, if necessary.  Evidence in your case may include:

• Video footage from cameras at nearby businesses or from witnesses
• Accident scene photos from intersection cameras or witnesses
• Cell phone photos
• Accident reports
• Statements from witnesses
• Medical records
• Medical scans and tests

In some cases, an accident reconstruction expert is needed to help determine how the crash occurred and who was at fault. A knowledgeable expert can also determine whether a vehicle defect caused the accident as well. Explaining Settlement Options

Apart from helping collect sufficient evidence to prove your claim, your lawyer will help you understand your settlement options. You may not know this but most car accident cases are settled out of court. This means that the at-fault party or their insurance company will likely make you a compensatory offer. Your auto accident attorney will help you understand the repercussions of accepting their offer as once it is accepted, you won’t be able to sue them ever again. The lawyer will also help you determine whether to accept the offer or negotiate for a better deal accordingly. Filing a Court Case

If the out of court negotiations do not work out as planned, your lawyer will help you seek justice in court. This may turn out to be a more time-consuming and expensive affair. If you attempt to do this on your own, the at-fault party and their insurance company might try to stop you from suing them. With a knowledgeable and seasoned attorney on your side, you won’t have to succumb to such pressure or let go of your claim.

The lawyer will help you file your case and ensure that all the necessary documents are submitted. In court, your lawyer will offer you excellent and highly skilled legal representation, answer all questions on your behalf and keep you updated on the court proceeding. The lawyer will present all the available evidence strategically and utilize their tricks and tactics. All this will help to increase the chances of getting full compensation and full justice for your injuries.
Going through a car accident is never easy. In some cases, accidents change your life forever. A seasoned auto accident trial lawyer will help you recover financially so you can continue to fend for yourself or your loved one. However, you must hire a car accident attorney in west palm beach who is concerned about your well-being and treats your case with personal attention and dedication.

The team of trial attorneys at RFH Legal takes the time to educate you on the process and fight tirelessly to see full and fair civil justice for your injuries.   If you need help with your claim, contact our legal team at RFH Legal. We will help you in your time of need and take on the insurance company to secure the full compensation you deserve.

Even a simple distraction can take your attention off the road for a few seconds but that’s all it takes. If you collided with another car in the intersection, you may think it was probably your fault. What do you do now?

Getting in a car accident can be a frightening experience. When the collision is your fault, it can feel even worse. There are some common-sense steps to take right after any car accident. Even if you may be at fault for the collision, there are a few things you should never do.

What To Do After an Accident

No matter how careful you are, you can be involved in a car accident. Remember these steps to protect your rights and save you hassle down the road.

• Call the police: In many states, you are required to call the police after an accident.
• Check for injuries: Call for an ambulance if you are not certain about the severity of the injuries.
• Exchange information: Get the phone numbers, email addresses, and insurance policy information of the other drivers and any witnesses.
• Don’t block traffic: If the accident is minor, move your car out of the roadway.
• Take pictures: Use the camera on your cell phone to record the accident scene and damage to the cars. Make a note if surrounding businesses may have cameras that captured the accident or if there are cameras mounted on the traffic lights.
• Make notes: Immediately record facts about the accident, including specific damages to all vehicles involved, witness information, and comments by the other drivers.
• File a report: If the police do not come to the scene of the accident, file a report with the police department or the department of motor vehicles. Some regions even offer online car accident reporting systems.
• Call your insurance company: Report all accidents to your car insurance carrier regardless of fault. Some insurance plans require you to report accidents immediately or they will increase your rates.

Don’t Do It If You Are Involved in a Crash

There are a few things you should not do if you’re legally responsible for a car accident.

• Don’t yell: Emotions can run high right after an accident. Don’t get mad or accuse the other driver of anything.
• Don’t admit fault: Even if you think you caused the accident, do not say you caused the accident to the police or the other driver. Likewise, do not apologize for the accident. The other driver may be partially at fault for the collision or the severity of the damages.
• Don’t discuss the accident: You shouldn’t talk about the details of the accident with the other party, their insurance company, or their attorney. Be honest with the police and your insurance company by giving the facts. Consider talking to an attorney for legal advice.
• Don’t negotiate: The side of the road, right after an accident is not the time or place to be signing statements regarding fault or promising to pay for the damage. Let the insurance companies do their job.
• Don’t be first to leave: After the police have made their report, wait until the other drivers have left the scene before you depart.

If You Caused a Car Accident, Get an Attorney’s Help

Causing a car accident can have serious consequences. Personal injuries and car repairs can cost a bundle. If you don’t have enough insurance to cover all the damages, the other drivers may attach your savings or other assets to make up the difference. You need to protect your interests. Get help from an experienced auto accident attorney.

After an accident, car accident victims are often left to deal with serious injuries and rising medical bills on their own. Insurance companies often offer accident victims a low-ball settlement that is just a fraction of what they need to recover. These insurance companies don’t have your best interest in mind—the only people they have in mind are their shareholders and reducing their liabilities. They may pressure accident victims into signing a settlement too quickly and you could end up with less than you need to cover your injuries.

The moment your accident occurred, a clock started ticking. It’s a countdown to the first financial hit coming your way as a result of your injuries. For most folks, that first hit is a missed paycheck. Then the first medical bill comes in, and there won’t be just one. Pretty soon, you find yourself with a financial problem that you don’t know how to solve.

That’s why it’s important that you call one of our experienced car accident attorneys as soon as possible following your accident. This ensures that our team can collect important evidence and witness accounts that could be lost over time. It also allows our legal team to go to work quickly to build a strong case for you. The sooner you call, the sooner you can get the compensation you deserve for your accident.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Immediately after you are injured in a car accident, there are steps you can take to help you collect the compensation you need.

• Call 911 – Call 911 and report your accident, which helps alert both police officials and emergency medical teams to the scene of the accident. Your police report and your medical report will be invaluable when establishing fault and liability. Without them, it’s just your word against theirs.
• Gather Evidence – Gathering evidence can be done easily now that we have smartphones. Snap pictures of license plates, eyewitness information, vehicle damage, traffic patterns, intersections, and any other important information that could help your lawyer establish fault.
• Contact a Lawyer – Insurance companies will always seek to reduce their liabilities by offering accident victims a low-ball settlement offer. This is usually a fraction of what you need to recover. Contact an experienced car accident attorney immediately to begin building your case. Remember, contacting an attorney is not the same thing as filing a lawsuit.

What Not to Do After a Car Accident

While it’s important to know what to do after a car accident, it’s equally important to know what NOT to do. Immediately after your accident, avoid making these serious car accident mistakes.

• Not Reporting Your Accident – Sometimes it can be tempting to just exchange information with the other driver and go on your way, especially if you don’t believe you’ve been injured. Unfortunately, some car accident injuries can take days and even weeks to become fully apparent. Always report your accident and obtain a police report.
• Admitting Blame – It’s human nature to apologize – even when we are not wrong. Yet after a car accident, saying “I’m sorry” can be used to show that you admitted fault for the crash. Even if you believe that you were partly to blame, do not admit fault.
• Accepting Settlement – The insurance company will often use a “take it or leave it” approach to pressure injured accident victims into accepting a settlement that is far below what they need to truly recover. Don’t sign anything without first speaking with an attorney.

What is the Statute of Limitations?

In the state of Arkansas, car accident victims only have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. While this may seem like a lot of time, three years can pass quickly after a crash. You may be injured severely and focused on recovery and on improving your life. You may be struggling to make ends meet and trying to help your family stay out of bankruptcy after an accident. During this time, valuable evidence might get lost or even destroyed. Contact an experienced lawyer for your car accident immediately to begin building your case and to avoid missing any critical deadlines.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Call our car accident attorneys today for a free consultation. We’re ready to help you get maximum compensation for your injury claim.

When to Call a Lawyer

Not everyone who has been involved in a car accident will need to seek legal representation. However, if your accident was severe or complex, then it’s necessary to call a lawyer as soon as possible, so they can begin building your case. If any of the following apply to your situation, call a lawyer right away:

• Any accident that causes significant injury to you or someone else
• Any accident where fault is not clearly established
• Any crash involving another motorist, such as a pedestrian, other cars, truck, or cyclist
• Any collision in a school zone
• Any crash in a construction zone or work zone
• Anytime you disagree with the police report
• Any crash involving an underinsured or uninsured driver
• Anytime insurance companies send mixed messages or offer confusing answers to liability concerns

Small fender-benders often will not require the assistance of an attorney, however, there are special circumstances where an attorney’s services could be invaluable after a minor crash. These include:

• Minor collisions that result in significant vehicle or property damage
• Any injuries to a passenger in your own vehicle or to yourself
• Any significant work missed by you or your passengers
• Problems dealing with car repairs and insurance limits

The sooner you contact an attorney, the better. In the state of Arkansas, you only have three years to file a personal injury claim. While that may seem like a lot of time, valuable evidence can be lost or destroyed in just a few weeks. That’s why injured accident victims should call an attorney as soon as they are able, even if they’re not certain they wish to file a lawsuit.

Our lawyers offer a free consultation and review of your case and we can help you choose the legal path that is best for you and your family. Call us today at www.rfhlegal.com to learn more.

What to Provide Your Lawyer

Make sure your meeting runs smoothly by providing your lawyer with the following information:

• Contact information
• Key facts about your case
• Police report
• Medical records
• Financial documents or medical receipts
• Photos of accident scene or damage
• Witness contact information and statements

When to File A Claim

Once you’ve met, your attorney will investigate all aspects of your case and begin negotiating with the insurance company. Remember, a personal injury claim is different from a personal injury lawsuit. A personal injury claim is between you and the at-fault driver’s insurance company and involves a series of negotiations. At Rainwater, Holt & Sexton, our Arkansas personal injury lawyers are skilled negotiators who obtain maximum compensation for our injured clients.

If the insurance company plays hardball, however, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party to seek damages. This often occurs when the insurance claims adjuster denies who was at fault for the accident or doesn’t agree with the severity of your injuries. When negotiations stall and a settlement cannot be reached, the next step is a personal injury lawsuit.

Benefits of Hiring an Attorney

It may seem easier to handle the aftermath of a car accident by yourself. Yet nothing could be further from the truth. Hiring an attorney can make your life and your recovery process easier and prevent unscrupulous insurance adjusters from taking advantage of you. Some of the benefits of hiring an attorney include:

• Taking on the Insurance Company – insurance companies don’t always play fair. That’s why you need an experienced Arkansas car accident attorney to fight for you during this time. Your lawyer can take on the insurance company and ensure that they are not acting in bad faith.
• Filing Necessary Paperwork – filing a car accident claim and filing a personal injury lawsuit involve paperwork and forms. These forms must be filed properly and on-time to ensure that your case proceeds accordingly and so you obtain a favorable outcome. Improperly filed forms or failure to file the necessary paperwork can add lengthy delays to your case and prevent you from receiving the money you need.
• Not Missing Deadlines – a car accident attorney will make certain that you do not miss any critical deadlines, such as the statute of limitations. In some cases, accident victims only have a small window to file a claim, so your attorney will act quickly to meet these deadlines and protect your rights to compensation.
• Increased Compensation – those who call a lawyer receive more compensation than those who do not. Lawyers know how to build a case to show the insurance company just how much money you need to recover. They aren’t afraid to go toe-to-toe with large insurance companies and they will fight to make sure ALL of your medical expenses are considered – both now and in the future.
• Contingency Basis – most car accident lawyers work on a contingency basis. This means that you owe them nothing unless they win or settle your case. Any injured accident victim can seek justice after an accident – not just those who can afford it.
• Thorough Investigation – attorneys have extensive experience investigating car accidents. They often use accident recreation teams, forensic specialists, and experts to uncover all liable parties, even ones not listed in the police report, such as the car manufacturer, the city responsible for maintaining the roads, or the bar that served the intoxicated driver.

TYPES AND CAUSES OF CAR ACCIDENTS

There are many different types of car wrecks. It may be helpful for you to understand more about the type of accident that has injured you or a loved one. You can get a better understanding of what may have caused the accident, the party who should be held responsible, and what you may possibly recover for your losses.

Please review the information and links we have provided in this section and contact an experienced car crash attorney from our firm to discuss the specific aspects of your case.

CAUSES OF CAR ACCIDENTS

Common causes of car accidents include:

• Distracted Driving
  Drivers that have their attention diverted to distractions are more likely to cause accidents. Driving distractions may include: Eating/drinking, talking, brushing hair or putting on makeup, reading books/maps, using GPS devices, watching videos, tuning radios.
• Texting-While-Driving
  Drivers who are texting on a cell phone have both their hands and eyes distracted from the road. You are 23 times more likely to get into a crash when you are texting while driving than you would be if you were driving without a distraction.
• Drowsy Driving
  Drivers who don’t get enough sleep are more susceptible to causing accidents. The body requires rest in order to remain alert and have a fast enough reaction time to prevent an accident. Drowsy driving accidents are both common and dangerous.
• Drugged Driving
  Drivers under the influence of any drug that impairs one’s motor skills, reaction time, or judgment have a higher risk of causing accidents. Drugged driving is a threat to the safety of motorists and is considered to be negligence.
• Drunk Driving
  Drunk driving, like drugged driving, is a common cause of car accidents. If one’s mind is impaired, their ability to drive also becomes impaired. Drunk driving crashes have a horrible impact on victims and their families.
• Speeding
  Speeding causes accidents because speeding drivers often don’t have enough time to stop or avoid a collision. Speed limits are in place to keep drivers safe and reduce the likelihood of accidents. Drivers who speed are driving recklessly.
• Reckless Driving
  Reckless driving can include speeding, running lights, failing to yield, weaving, tailgating, racing, or other negligent actions while driving. Reckless driving puts other drivers at risk and is a common cause of car accidents.

TYPES OF CAR ACCIDENTS

Common types of car accidents include:

• Head-on Collisions
  Negligence usually plays a role in head-on collisions. These types of collisions are among the most devastating.
• Highway Construction Accidents
  Construction companies have a responsibility to not cause accidents. Other drivers should drive more carefully in highway construction areas.
• Intersection Accidents
  Accidents at intersections are usually caused because someone made a driving error, which could be attributed to negligence.
• Interstate Accidents
  Accidents on the interstate can be more serious due to the speeds at which the cars are traveling.
• Rear-End Accidents
  Rear-end accidents are among the most common types of accidents, and they frequently cause whiplash.
• Side-Impact Accidents
  Side-impact accidents are also common, and usually occur at intersections. They can cause more injuries depending on where the car was hit.

HomeArticlesPersonal Injury4 Benefits of a Car Accident Report

4 Benefits of a Car Accident Report

If you’re hoping to recover damages from your car accident, a car accident report from the police can be very helpful. You can still pursue a claim without one, but an official police report can go a long way to protect your rights.It Provides Documentation of the Accident

It sounds silly, but without a completed car accident report, the other driver’s insurance company may question whether a car wreck happened at all. Having a police officer come to the scene and make an official report provides written proof that there was indeed an accident. It Provides Details of the Accident

Most car accident reports include a description of the car wreck a diagram of where the cars were located, and even the officer’s opinion about what or who was responsible. An experienced car accident attorney will review the accident report to get a good picture of what happened at the scene and determine a course of action. It Provides Details of the People Involved

When involved in a minor accident, most people will simply exchange information with the other driver and commit to working it out later. What happens, though when you don’t hear from the other driver? How do you know for sure who was even driving the car that night? How will you be able to prove what happened?

A car accident report gathers vital information regarding the drivers, witnesses and the police officers involved so that you can follow up on your claim. It provides valuable contact information for your car wreck attorney and helps ensure that your claim is filed against the correct person. It Provides Information for the Officer to use in Court

Police officers deal with multiple car accidents every day. The odds of the officer remembering your car wreck are pretty small. A car accident report provides the police officer a written account that he or she can use as a reference in court.

Our opinion as experienced wreck attorneys is that you should always wait for the police to make an official report of your accident – especially if you were injured. While you can still make a claim for your car accident injuries without a report, it is better to be safe and have the documentation that you need. Call Today for a Free Consultation

The Lawyers of Brown & Roberto are serious lawyers who know how to win. With more than 75 years of combined experience, we have recovered more than $45 million for our clients. Our office is conveniently located in West Knoxville, with plenty of free parking. We’re happy to meet with you free of charge to discuss your case and answer any questions that you may have. Give us a call at (865) 328-7841 or contact us through our website Brown & Roberto, PLLC to set up a free consultation.