Car Accident Lawyer
After you’ve been hurt in an auto accident, there are many things running through your mind. Your health, car repairs, and how you might keep working are some the most common, and most troublesome, concerns.
Along with the things you should do – like seek medical treatment – there are some things you should avoid. An attorney can talk about these things because they have worked with accident victims just like you and are experienced in pursuing realistic damage claims that are representative of what you deserve.
Should I call police?
Absolutely! Even if your accident was minor, it’s crucial to document the who, when and where immediately. Local law enforcement can help with this, and their report will be vital for the insurance companies to process your claim.
Sometimes drivers may think it’s enough to simply exchange information with the other driver. It’s not enough to trust this stranger will provide accurate information, not to mention there is always the possibility you could inadvertently lose the information. It’s a good idea to call police and let the responding officer enter an official report.
Remain at the scene, call 911 and detail as much as you can remember to the responding officer.
Should I give a recorded statement?
The insurance company for the at-fault driver may ask you to provide a recorded statement. It’s not advisable to enter into this without your trusted attorney by your side.
Insurance adjusters will frame questions in a way that could trick you into answering in terms that may not be in your best interests.
An experienced law firm is familiar with these tactics and know what to look out for. If it’s absolutely necessary for the insurance company to obtain a recorded statement from you, don’t provide it without a lawyer on your side.
Do I have to hand over my medical records?
It’s likely you will eventually hand over your medical records, but don’t think it has to be right away OR your full history.
Do not sign a medical release until you are close to the end of treatment for your injuries. It’s not necessary for the insurance company to have this at the start of their investigation.
Over time, your medical condition may change. Supplying this information too early won’t provide an accurate representation of your injury and how it may impact your life long-term. Waiting until the end of your treatment means together with your attorney, we can more accurately weigh special damages of pain and suffering. This will help dictate how you approach the insurance company and what you are eligible for.
Do not discuss any preexisting conditions with the claims adjuster. The insurance company will be looking for reasons to NOT pay out on your claim. They will be looking for ways to show that your chronic condition exacerbated the effects of your injury, and therefore your payout should be lowered. Only a doctor can properly evaluate your accident, injuries and effects of any other conditions on this new injury.
Call a Law Firm Today
Dealing with the aftermath of an auto accident can be a stressful time. A car accident lawyer DC relies on can understand what you’re going through: multiple doctors appointments, lost wages from time spent out of work and car repairs, all while your regular monthly bills are still rolling in. Call an attorney today to get the compensation you need.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. for their insight into auto accidents and personal injury.