Accident Process
Many clients call my office after being involved in an accident. They are confused about the process and what to do. Unfortunately, some clients get bad advice from either their family or friends. Even worse, they get bad advice from another attorney.
When Does My Injury Case Begin
The process to ensure that your case is handled properly begins from the moment you get involved in an accident. It starts with you. First and foremost call the police regardless of how bad your cars are damaged or if you are hurt. Make sure you wait for the police and give the officer your version of the accident. Make sure you tell the police everything you remember, what happened and what the other person was doing. Make sure you tell this to the police officer, and write this down somewhere else for you and your case file.
Second, get the names and numbers of any and all people who witnessed the accident. Make sure these witnesses remain at the scene to give their information to the police officer. Make sure the police office writes down their names and numbers and what they recall. This is very important as the other driver’s story may change over time.
Third, review the police report when you get a copy. Make sure the report is accurate, and if it is not then call up the police officer and get it changed. Many cases are won and lost based on what is written in the police report. If the officer wrote it wrong then you need to get it corrected. Officers rely on their report when testifying at court because they will not remember your case two years from now. If it is wrong it needs to be changed now.
Finally, go get medical help, if you feel you are hurt or in pain. Treat your situation as if you are at fault and you are getting medical treatment as that is what is best for your health.
What Should I Expect from My Attorney
As always, it is imperative that you have an attorney on your side who is handling your case from day one. Your attorney should be able to help you get a copy of your police report. Your attorney should be able speak to the witnesses to get their statement. Your attorney should speak with the insurance company to setup your claim. Your attorney should be able to help you get the treatment you need, especially if you don’t know of any doctors or cannot afford it yourself. Your attorney should be able to determine the fair value of your case and hold the insurance company accountable.