With the number of motor vehicle collisions that occur everyday all across the United States, it is common for people to think that it is just a matter of time until it could happen to them.   People rarely prepare for this possibility and because of this, when a collision occurs, they don't know what to do.   Here are some practical pointers.

Do not speak to the insurance company unless and until you have spoken with an attorney.  If you speak to an insurance company or claims agent before speaking to an attorney you may make statements that can severely limit your ability to recover for your losses.  These statements are often recorded and typed up for later use against you.  

Insurance companies evaluate personal injury claims based upon two factors.   Who is responsible for causing the collision and how serious are the injuries and damages that were caused by the collision.  With regard to proving fault, it is extremely important at the earliest opportunity following a collision that we take the steps necessary to document and preserve the evidence that helps prove the fault of the other driver.  Photos need to be taken, witnesses must be interviewed, collision scene analysis can be performed, and other tasks performed.   Our firm has a full time investigator employed who performs these critical tasks. 

 With regard to recovering for your injuries and damages (pain and suffering, medical bills, wage loss, damaged property), Insurance companies evaluate claims based upon their analysis of what injuries and losses were caused by the collision, how serious they are, and whether there is documentation to prove the injuries and damages.   If you have a pre-existing physical or mental condition and now claim to have injured the same areas of your body before, it is extremely important to document how the new collision has made your condition worse or how your condition has been aggravated.

 If you believe you are having any symptoms of injury, whether it is stiffness, soreness, headaches or the more obvious physical injuries, you should be seen by a doctor or health care professional as soon as possible following the collision.   Whether you ride in an ambulance, are seen at an emergency room, urgent care center, doctor's office or by some other health care professional, these medical providers create medical records documenting your injuries, treatment and other information at each visit.  This assists us in proving your claim.  

 These are basic steps you can do to assist us in our efforts to achieve the best claims settlement or verdict for you.      

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