A car accident is one of those experiences that results in confusion, stress, and anxiety. After a collision, so many things happen, and you have to make important decisions that will affect you for the rest of your life.
Your actions at the scene of the accident and in the days following your accident can profoundly affect your ability to recover compensation for your injuries.
When you’re suffering from the pain of their injuries and the worry of how you will pay for the expenses ahead of you, figuring out the right course of action can seem overwhelming.
Here’s what to do after you’ve been involved in or injured in a car accident:
01
Take a couple of deep breaths slowly and steadily. Try to focus your attention on your breath and in the present moment to calm your nervous system and develop a sense of calmness.
02
Examine your mental and physical health. If you’ve been harmed, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Because certain soft tissue or brain injuries have no symptoms, your damage may not be obvious right away. Don’t be surprised if you’re still hurting a day or two later because the shock of the accident can sometimes hide the pain you’re feeling. Make an appointment to see a doctor. If you’re not sure where to go, give us a call. We will connect you with a medical practitioner who can help you.
03
The collision should be reported to the police. If there are any injuries, dial 911. If not, call the Columbus Police Department’s non-emergency line at (706) 225-3205. If you’re on a Georgia state road, call the Georgia State Patrol.
04
Find out who the players are. What is the other driver’s name? What is their driver’s license number? What type of vehicle were they driving? What is their insurance company’s name? Who was present at the time of the collision? Gather as much information on the other parties involved as possible. They’ll come in handy.
05
Make a phone call to work and explain your situation. “Hey, I was in a car accident, and I’m going to see a doctor. I’ll phone you at the end of the day to give you an update on my condition. I’m not going to come in today.”
06
Call Columbus car accident attorneys Issa & Castro before reporting the crash to your insurance carrier. Why? Because insurance companies, including your own, care more about protecting their profitability than protecting your health. Investigators are trained to ask questions that don’t expose the complete story, so you’ll be asked to give a documented statement. As a result, they will undervalue your case.
How much is your case worth?
We’re all aware that lawyers are notorious for making their multimillion-dollar deals public. We know from personal experience that such folks would gladly trade their health and mobility for money any day of the week. Nonetheless, the costs of an accident are substantial, and you are entitled to compensation for an event that you did not cause.
So, what is the true value of your lawsuit? A vehicle accident lawyer’s standard response is, “It depends.” We aren’t trying to avoid answering your inquiry in any way. It’s entirely up to you. Because each situation is different, insurance policy limits and crash conditions vary. And you can get a different answer depending on whatever lawyer you ask.
One of our clients was told that their lawsuit was worth nothing. We were able to settle the same lawsuit for $1,000,000. Is this something that frequently occurs? Is this going to be the situation for you? It really depends. Speaking with a car accident lawyer is the only way to know for sure.
We use Zoom to give free case evaluations, so you don’t have to leave your house to meet with us. We’ll listen to your narrative and offer our opinion based on nearly two decades of experience and competence in almost every Georgia county courtroom.
Ok, but how much do you charge after the free consultation?
We provide contingency-based services, meaning we don’t get paid until you do.
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if you get paid. So we can focus on what matters most to you: managing your case and maximizing your recovery. We’ll put our knowledge, skill, and resources to work for you right away, providing documentation, investigation, and negotiation, all without charging you a thing.
If you’d like to learn more about what aggressive, empathetic representation can provide for you after an automobile accident, call or phone 770-LAWSUIT today to schedule your free case consultation.
Couldn’t I just handle this on my own?
Of course, you can contact your insurance provider and file a claim. You can phone your doctor to schedule an appointment with him or her. Any offer that comes your way has the choice of being accepted or rejected. You do not require the services of a lawyer. This isn’t to argue that hiring one isn’t a good idea.
Here’s how lawyers like us can help.
After a car accident, what happens to your automobile and your body is just the tip of the iceberg. One of our customers was in a small car accident and received no visible injuries, but his condition quickly deteriorated into severe neck pain that limited his movement.
While things may appear to be fine for the time being, we want to know what long-term effects this occurrence may have. We’ll keep in touch with your doctors to ensure that your health is safeguarded now and in the future.
You’ll also need to budget for things like repair services and doctor visits. If you miss work, you will lose money. Any therapy or medication that is prescribed to you must be paid for. We can help you track and recover these expenses so that your finances are not harmed.
We’ll also deal with the insurance companies on your behalf, so you don’t have to worry about making a mistake. You’ll be stress-free, which will allow you to recover as we safeguard your short- and long-term interests.
By preparing your case as though we’re going to trial, we’ll help you establish a stronger case. Don’t get too worked up about it; most disagreements can be resolved without going to court. However, we will not proceed with your case as if it will be resolved. We’ll prepare as if your case is going to trial. This ensures that you have a strong advocate on your side who is always ready to fight the insurance company on your behalf.
We’ll put your mind at ease for you. Personal injury cases are complex, and many decisions must be made along the way, each with its own set of consequences. We’ll give you strategic counsel so you can decide whether to accept or reject any offers that come your way, including whether to settle or go to trial.
I’m interested. What kinds of cases do you handle?
We specialize in the strategic resolution of the following issues:
Car Accidents
In the event of a collision between two cars or light trucks, one or both of the following generally happens:
– Head-on
– Rear-end
– Sideswipe
– Hit and run
The intensity of each of these is determined by a variety of factors, including vehicle weight, speed, and direction of movement. Minor property damage might sometimes have serious health concerns.
Truck Accidents
A commercial vehicle, such as an 18-wheeler, a bus, or a vehicle delivering hazardous commodities, is involved in the majority of these collisions. Commercial drivers are expected to adhere to rigorous guidelines, and liability for a collision could lie on a variety of people. These are complex cases that will require strong representation to ensure that the appropriate persons are held accountable.
Motorcycle Accidents
Because the majority of cars on the road are larger and heavier, riding a motorcycle exposes you to a range of dangers.
Bicycle Accidents
Bicycling is a great way to get some exercise or make a fast trip to the shop, but it can be risky while traveling on a busy highway. Even if they broke a traffic safety law, a negligent motorist might be held accountable for your injuries.
Pedestrian Accidents
Isn’t it true that by writing about these events, we’re placing ourselves in jeopardy? Walking around can be more dangerous than it should be when it comes to autos and traffic.
Medical Malpractice
When it comes to your health, you have every right to expect a certain amount of attention. Your life can be irreversibly altered if your provider causes you harm.
Nursing Home Abuse
We understand the agony of watching a loved one become a victim of abuse, as difficult as it is for us to discuss. If your senior relative shows signs of distress, has physical markings that appear suddenly or is missing money after spending time in nursing care, you should call us. Abuse should not be a part of anyone’s life.
Premises Liability
A property that is in disrepair may pose a trip and fall danger. Shattered railings, obstructed paths, and ruined carpeting can all contribute to a dangerous slip and fall.
Wrongful Death
The loss of life as a result of a personal injury is tragic. While taking legal action will not bring your loved one back, it will allow you to seek justice and accountability.
If you were hurt as a result of someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To learn more about your rights and how much your lawsuit is worth, contact Issa & Castro now for a free case consultation.
Ok, what kinds of expenses could I recover?
It is prudent to take the normal precaution: it depends. Every case has its unique set of elements to examine, such as policy limits, property damage, the severity of your injuries, and what the future holds for you based on medical evaluations. Here are some of the general expenses we’ll consider:
- Doctor’s office visits
- Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, CT scan, etc.)
- Physical therapy
- Medical devices (crutches, neck braces, scooters, etc.)
- Prescriptions and over-the-counter medication
- Lost wages
- Potential future income lost
- Disability
- Disfigurement
- Caretakers or help getting around
- Emotional and physical pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Of course, each one must be legal, so if you try to examine your own case, you may overlook something important or account for something that the law does not. In either instance, it’s a good idea to have a case evaluation to evaluate how much money your case is worth.
Wait. What do you mean pain and suffering can be compensated?
While you’re injured, it takes a toll on your energy and mental health. You’re grieving the loss of what was and the pain of what you can’t do because so much of your life revolves around the injury. The consequences of injuries on sleep, anxiety, and depression must not be overlooked. That is what misery and pain are all about.
The insurance company will look into your case and use a set of averages to determine the value of your claim. We’re not going to do it, though. We will take your narrative and circumstances into account as we fight for the compensation and recovery you deserve.
The insurance company offered a settlement.
It seems pretty good. Should we take it?
You may probably guess that we’ll answer “it depends on the details of your case” at this point.
Personal injury claims are a one-and-done event, we can say with certainty. If you accept an offer and then need more medical attention for your injuries, you won’t be able to go back and ask for more money. It’s not the same as having supper with Grandma when you are dealing with a personal injury lawsuit. So, before you accept an offer, double-check that it covers the present as well as the future.
If you employ us, we’ll provide you with advice, negotiate on your behalf, and do everything we can to ensure your legal rights are protected. If the insurance company continues to mistreat you, we will take your case to court and fight on your behalf.
Alright, what can I do to help my case?
What documentation is to your claim, food is to a party: It’s not required, but without it, the entire thing would be a waste. To put it another way, make a thorough record of everything.
Put these at the top of your list:
- Take out your smartphone and take photos or videos of everything. And by everything, we mean the scene, including property damage to your vehicle, the other vehicle, the roadway, signage, and other shattered things. You can’t get enough of this stuff, just like potato chips.
- Look for dashcams, security cameras, or cameras on the side of the road. You must, however, act quickly with this one because the footage may be erased soon. Please get in touch with us as soon as possible so that we can help you get these recordings.
- Personal information for anyone who witnessed the incident. Record a statement if possible
- The other driver’s info, including their name, phone number, and insurance details
- How to get ahold of your insurance company
- Your medical provider’s information and all charges
- Any additional costs, such as riding in an emergency vehicle; the time you had to take off work (including sick and vacation time), the time you couldn’t get to work, and so on; alterations to your living space; and any devices you had to buy, such as walking boots, crutches, or walkers.
Changes in your mood, sleep, or appetite are frequently noticed first by those closest to you.
- Let’s say your injuries have made you forgetful. You can’t recollect where you put your keys, what someone said only a few moments ago, or who your coworker is. On its own, any of those things is an expected part of being an adult. Taking all of these things into consideration over time, however, may indicate a brain injury. So get your phone out and scribble or dictate a note on what happened.
- Pay attention to your emotions. Expect some ups and downs during the day because few of us are completely balanced all of the time. Simply note any extremes or responses that appear to be out of proportion to the situation.
- Keep your balance, your five senses, and your coordination in mind. Do you seem to be dropping things at a faster rate than usual? Do you have trouble writing or typing? Do you find it difficult to tie your shoes or button your pants? Is walking more difficult than it used to be for you? Keep a close eye on these particulars.
This kind of information can help us get a better picture of your injuries and what you’ve gone through, which could be the key to getting you fair compensation.
What should I say to my insurance company?
Your insurance company may appear to be on your side, but it is almost certainly a profit-driven corporation. You want to submit a police report, but you don’t want to reveal anything about your health, your fault, or your background. After speaking with an attorney, make a recorded statement.
Here are the dos and don’ts of talking to your insurance company:
- Don’t give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney
- Don’t offer details about your health
- Don’t say you’re “fine” or “ok” or “feeling great today”
- Don’t tell your story
- Don’t say anything like “I wasn’t paying attention” or “I don’t know what happened”
- Don’t accept any offers without consulting an attorney
- Don’t post on social media
To preserve your rights, please contact personal injury lawyers Issa & Castro.
Mention the facts, for instance: “Around 5:00 p.m., I was traveling 54 miles per hour east, when my automobile was struck on the driver’s side by Mr. Smith’s vehicle.”
How soon should I file a claim?
In Georgia, you have two years to file a personal injury claim and four years to file a property damage claim. Why, though, should you wait? The further away from the events you are, the less likely you are to remember them. When a claim is filed years after the event, it can raise eyebrows.
What should I look for when I want to hire a personal injury lawyer?
Aside from our degrees and honors, there is one thing to remember: You can’t do a good transaction with a terrible partner. Keep the following in mind when looking for solid representation:
- Do you get the idea that this lawyer genuinely cares about your case? We recognize that you have many choices when it comes to hiring an attorney, so trust your gut. If you feel like you matter and your narrative is significant when you’re with your lawyer, you’ve handled the most important aspect: safety and trust.
- Are you paying attention to what your advisor is saying? Although it may seem strange to ask such a question, we recognize that many people use legal language. You’ve mastered the next phase if your lawyer can communicate with you in a clear and direct manner that you understand: Communication that is clear and direct.
- Is your attorney bringing you into the discussion? At the end of the day, it’s your case and your life; therefore, it’s all about you. Is your lawyer questioning you about your health and experience? Is it possible that they will be interested in what you have to say? If your lawyer keeps the conversation focused on you, you have a third incentive to deal with them: they are invested in your case.
Our goal is to deliver a finished product that makes you happy. We’ll use strategy and empathy to help you as we fight with a purpose to make you whole. Call or text 770-LAWSUIT to arrange your free case evaluation.
