Motor Vehicle Accidents

The Reasons for Accidents

Dollarphotoclub_53650060Every year thousands of accidents are caused for a variety of reasons such as driving under the influence of alcohol, failing to take precautions during inclement weather conditions, using a cell phone, texting or just plain inattentiveness and negligence. Whatever the reason or the cause of the accident, our office is here to help you evaluate your case and obtain a fair recovery from the insurance company for your injuries, out-of-pocket expenses, medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. 

IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER AFTER AN ACCIDENT

An accident, even a small one, can be very traumatic and upsetting for the average individual. It is important to do the following:

1. WRITE DOWN IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Write down important information at the accident scene such as the other driver’s name, witness names, diagram the accident scene, and record as many details as you can remember about how the accident happened. This is important because as time goes by memories fade and details may be forgotten.

2. TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS

Take photographs of the property damage to both your vehicle and the other vehicle involved.

3. NEVER ADMIT FAULT

Never admit fault or responsibility to the other driver or anyone else. A statement such as this could be used against you at a later time.

4. CALL THE POLICE

Call the police and if possible insist that a police report be taken. A police report will formally document and record statements of the drivers and witnesses, diagram the accident scene and record physical evidence that could be important in establishing fault if the other driver disputes how the accident happened.

5. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

See a doctor or health care provider as soon as possible and make sure to report all of your symptoms even if they are minor. This is important as early medical treatment may prevent your injuries from becoming worse and also documents the nature of your injuries at an early stage.

6. PHOTOGRAPH YOUR INJURIES

Photograph your injuries even if it is a minor cut, bruise or abrasion.  It is important to record the nature and extent of your injuries as photographs can be useful as evidence.

7. NEVER GIVE A WRITTEN OR RECORDED STATEMENT

Never give a written or recorded statement to the insurance company who represents the responsible driver. This statement can be used against you later if it is necessary to file a lawsuit and litigate your case.

8. RETAIN AN EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY

Retain an experienced attorney who can evaluate your case and properly protect your rights against the insurance company adjusters whose goal is to pay you as little money as possible.  An experienced attorney can maximize your recovery and, if the case cannot be settled out of court, pursue the legal process and litigate a favorable result for you. For over 30 years our office has obtained favorable results both in and out of court for our clients.

 

For a free consultation please fill out our Contact Form or contact The Law offices of Thomas R. Nigro (949) 453.1777.  Contact The Law Offices of Thomas R. Nigro today.