If you are involved in a car accident, an automobile accident attorney can make sure that you are properly compensated for all injuries and damages. Whether the responsible party has insurance or not, an attorney will make sure you receive a fair settlement.
When You Have an Accident
When you are in an accident, the first thing to do is to pull off the thoroughfare, if possible, and notify the authorities. If you are able, exchange license and insurance information with the other party, take pictures of the scene (if you have a camera) and wait for the police and first responders. Always have the EMTs check you out, even if you do not seem injured. Do not say anything to anyone about who is responsible; just exchange the required information.
If you are able to get home under your own power, visit your physician for a checkup so that he or she is aware of the accident. Sometimes symptoms do not manifest themselves for days or weeks after an accident, and the doctor will be able to verify their cause when they appear. If you suspect that you may have been injured, contact an attorney and make an appointment for a consultation. The attorney will listen and let you know if you have recourse.
If you are injured enough to be taken to a hospital, contact an automobile accident attorney at the earliest possible time. Hospital and other medical bills, especially for an emergency room, can mount quickly and spiral out of control. An attorney will make sure that those who are responsible for your injuries bear the burden of the bills.
Contacting an Attorney
If you decide to take legal action following an accident, you’ll need the help of an attorney skilled in personal injury. You will face a strong team of lawyers from the defendant’s insurance company, and their only goal is to pay as little as possible – preferably nothing. If they concede that payment is due, they will work to get you to settle for the amount that they want to pay, not what you should receive. In addition to handling the legal proceedings, the attorney will also advise you as to the fairness of any settlement offer that is made.
In cases where the person responsible for the car accident does not have insurance, an attorney is even more important. Lack of insurance does not absolve people from their responsibilities, and they are still responsible for covering your bills, one way or another.
When you are injured in a car accident, hiring an automobile accident attorney means that you will be represented by a specialist who is dedicated to seeing that you are justly compensated for your misfortune.