10/31/2014
Frequently Asked Questions:
Personal Injury
If you suffer a personal injury as the result of someone else’s negligence (motor vehicle accident, boating accident, airplane mishaps, medical malpractice or other), you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. These damages can include items such as:
Medical expenses (present and future)
Pain and suffering
Lost wages
Loss of your property
Loss of the ability to lead a normal life
Permanent physical impairment
Wrongful death of a family member
If you are involved in an accident, keep the following things in mind. These will be very important in connection with any claim for damages:
-Identify the other people involved. Get their names, addresses, telephone numbers, insurance company names/policy numbers, license plate numbers.
-Identify any witnesses. Get their names, addresses and telephone numbers. Their testimony may be extremely helpful to you in the future.
-Make notes of all comments made the other parties involved. Do not make any comments yourself other than giving the information required by the police officer or other investigating authority.
-So that you don’t forget any details, you should make a written record concerning the accident. Include a description of how the accident happened, details about the location of the accident, the weather conditions at the time and any other items you think may be useful should you pursue any claim for damages.
-Take several photographs of the scene of the accident as soon as possible. Include signs, buildings, trees or shrubbery, tire skid marks, etc.
-Take several photographs of your physical injuries.
-Take several photographs of all damage to your motor vehicle.
-Keep a record of all future problems you have as a result of your accident and injuries.
-Keep a record of all time you are off work as a direct result of your accident and injuries.
-DO NOT give a recorded statement to anyone (not even your own insurance company) without first consulting an attorney.
-DO NOT sign any release forms or other documents without first consulting an attorney.
-DO NOT attend any court proceedings related to your accident without first consulting an attorney.
