Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do after an accident?
If you are injured, seek immediate medical attention. If you are able to remain on the scene, whether it be a car accident or an accident on someone's property, attempt to gather as much information as you can - identify witnesses and obtain their statements, take photos if you have a camera and make detailed notes about what happened.

Should I talk to police?
You are required to give a statement to police. However, you should avoid talking to a person who might be responsible or negligent - the other driver or the owner of the property where the incident took place - or their insurance representative.

What if I don't realize I'm injured until the next day?
Some injuries do not immediately produce symptoms. As soon as you realize you have an injury related to an accident, seek medical help. It is imperative that medical records document your injury from the earliest possible date.

How soon should I call an attorney?
You should consult an attorney as soon as possible after being injured. In most cases there are time limits for filing claims after an injury occurs, and if this deadline passes, your claim could be dismissed. In addition, finding witnesses and gathering evidence to support your case becomes more difficult the longer you wait.

Do I have a case?
Only an experienced injury attorney can assess the facts of your case and determine whether you are due compensation. Don't hesitate to call our office for a free consultation. You may have a case, even if another attorney said you did not.

Does it cost me anything to speak to a lawyer?
No. We offer a free initial consultation, during which we will assess your case and discuss all available alternatives.

How can a personal injury attorney help me?
An attorney experienced in representing personal injury victims and negotiating with insurance companies can analyze your case and determine fair compensation for your losses, including past and future losses. Medical problems caused by an accident may not be fully recognized for months or even years after the accident. Losses from medical bills, decreased earning potential and many other problems can raise the value of your claim. Further, dealing with medical bills and insurance company negotiations on your own can be a harrowing experience.

How much is my case worth?
A host of factors impact the amount of your compensation, including the extent of your injuries, physical and mental pain and suffering, the amount and length of medical treatment, economic hardship or financial loss, decreased earning potential, and physical impairment and/or disfigurement. An experienced personal injury lawyer can best estimate the value of your claim.

Should I accept an insurance company's settlement offer?
Before accepting a settlement, it is always in your best interest to consult an attorney. Adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Their job is to settle the matter for the lowest possible cost to the company. An attorney will work for you and ensure that a settlement results in full compensation for your injuries, including money for future, unanticipated medical expenses.

Can I settle without going to court?
Many injury claims can be settled for their full value through negotiation, mediation or arbitration, without you having to go to court. However, some complex cases, or cases the insurance company refuses to settle, may require that you participate in legal proceedings.

How long will it take to conclude my case?
Each case is unique. Generally, your medical treatment should be complete, and all of your bills accounted for before a settlement is reached. You have only one chance to settle your case, therefore it is vital that all future medical expenses be accounted for in any settlement. This could take months or more. If a lawsuit is filed, completion could take years, depending on the complexity of the case and the court docket.

How much will the legal process cost?
If we take your case, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you owe us nothing unless we recover on your claim. We will be happy to provide you with a complete assessment of what each of your options might cost. This figure will depend on the facts of your case and whether a fair settlement is believed possible.