It is important to protect your rights if you are injured in an automobile collision. A few simple steps can ensure that you do not compromise your position at the scene of a collision or afterward.
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Do not make assumptions or conclusions about who was at fault; only state FACTS.
Do not admit liability or accuse anyone else of being "at fault." It is better to limit your statements to the FACTS about what happened, e.g., "I was sitting at the red light, waiting for it to turn green, and I was hit from behind," or "I was traveling through the intersection on a green light and I was struck on the driver's side of my car." Do not volunteer information to anyone at the scene of the collision, other than the investigating officer. If you are required to contact your insurer, you should consider contacting your attorney first.
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How do I choose a personal injury attorney?
Word of mouth is usually the best source. You will want an attorney who is experienced dealing with insurance companies, who has gone to trial and won cases on behalf of his clients. Insurance companies assess the value of your claim, in part, by the lawyer you have chosen to represent you. Lawyers who spend vast sums on advertising are not necessarily respected, or even taken seriously, by the insurance companies that they will be suing. While most cases settle without trial, you want an attorney who is willing to go to trial, so that you can make the maximum recovery from the "at fault" party's insurer. You also want an attorney who will personally handle your case and who will stay personally involved until it has been concluded.
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