If you’ve been involved in an accident, what is the first thing you should think about?

A. Hiring a killer lawyer.
B. Calling the insurance company and trying to negotiate a settlement.
C. Getting better.

The answer is C. There is nothing more important than your own health. After an accident, you should go see your regular physician for evaluation and treatment of your injuries. Ask your physician what you can do to help you feel better as soon as possible. Would he or she recommend a physical therapist or chiropractor? Do you need to see a specialist? Should you take time off work to speed up the healing process? These are questions you need to ask your doctor. Follow your doctor’s advice carefully.

Once you have seen your doctor and have a treatment plan in place, then you need to think about hiring a lawyer. Do not wait too long. In some cases, you need to file an accident claim no later than six months after the accident. An experienced attorney can help you evaluate your potential case. Also, if you need medical care that you cannot afford, a lawyer may be able to help you by finding you a doctor who will defer being paid until after you have settled your accident claim.

If you answered B, please reconsider. Most people cannot negotiate their own settlements. Many insurance companies want to settle your claim quickly, before you find out the value of your case and before you find out that you need expensive medical treatment. Generally speaking, the insurance adjuster is not your friend, and only wants to settle for the least amount of money possible.

There are many factors to consider when you’ve been involved in an accident that was not your fault. Please call Fran Campbell to discuss your potential case. There is never a charge for telephone consultations.

The foregoing is general advice and not meant to be advice for any particular case. Only an experienced attorney who has heard the facts of YOUR case can give you legal advice that pertains to you.

Please consult an attorney–any attorney. Call today for a complimentary consultation: 213.223.2065 or fill in our quick case evaluation form for a speedy response to your questions/case.