Car Accident Lawsuits

Car accident lawsuits are inherently confusing. This reason alone is why accident victims are encouraged to hire a personal injury attorney to assist them with their case.

If you have been injured in a car accident, regardless of the stage you are in, you are most likely going to have a few questions. To ensure that you get as much information as possible upfront, we have compiled a list of these common questions, along with answers, for you to review.

These questions and answers do not supplement actual legal advice. Therefore, it is best to consult with a personal injury lawyer any time you have questions about a potential lawsuit. While waiting for your consultation, here is a list of the common questions and answers other victims have requested in the past.

The insurance company has requested a written statement – do I have to provide one?

The answer will depend on which insurance company is asking for this statement. If it is your own insurance company, you may be required to provide a statement. However, it is still within your right to request that you consult an attorney before doing so. Realize that you are not required by law to furnish a written statement, and you should be cautious about doing so until you have an attorney representing your case.

After a car accident, do I really need an attorney?

Insurance companies have attorneys working for them, and they work on the assumption that you will not hire your own attorney. They fight to make sure you do not get the settlement you deserve for your injuries. Therefore, it is always best to hire an attorney. An attorney does cost money, but legal representation ensures that you receive the compensation you deserve.

How much does a personal injury attorney cost?

Every attorney charges different fees, but most will work on a contingency basis. This means that the attorneys are only paid if they win your case. Therefore, there is not much to lose when hiring an attorney.

Contingency fees are a percentage of the settlement recovered by the attorney. To find out what your attorney may charge, you will want to review the agreement and see what contingency percentage is requested.

Should I contact the police after a car accident?

Yes, you should. You are required by law to report a car accident to the local authorities, even if the damage is minor. The police will then instruct you on what to do next. Sometimes, if the damage is minor, the officer will give you a case number over the phone and then you will be allowed to leave the scene. Other times, you must wait for police to arrive and do an official police report at the scene of the accident. Do not leave the scene until you have contacted the police and have been given permission. Doing so could constitute a hit and run, even if you were not the one who caused the accident.