¿Dónde pueden buscar compensación los peatones heridos en un accidente automovilístico?
Acerca de 6 million car accidents occur in the US every year. Millions of people sustain serious injuries as a result. In fact, about 2 million people sustain permanent injuries, too. If you’re a pedestrian injured in a car accident, it’s important to fight for the compensation you deserve. Otherwise, you might find yourself out of work as you heal from your injuries. In that time, your medical bills and lost wages could start stacking up.
You shouldn’t have to pay out-of-pocket to cover your losses if someone else caused your injuries.
Instead, you can fight with an experienced car accident injury lawyer at your side.
Not sure who you should speak to before fighting for the compensation you rightfully deserve? Here are seven tips that can help. After reading this guide, you can find an experienced car accident injury lawyer for your case.
Start your search with these seven simple tips today.
1. Gather Recommendations
Do you have any friends or family members who were recently injured in a car accident? Ask them if they filed a lawsuit. If they did, ask about the lawyer they hired.
Take the time to learn from their first-hand account. Their experience could help you find the help you need to seek compensation.
Ask about the lawyer they hired. Was the lawyer knowledgeable, professional, and a strong communicator? Was the lawyer able to fight for the compensation your friend deserved?
Gathering personal recommendations can help you find a lawyer you can trust. You can also prepare yourself for the road ahead.
Have you hired a lawyer for another reason in the past? Maybe you filed for a divorce or drafted your will. Consider speaking with the lawyer you hired.
Ask if their law firm handles pedestrian-car accident cases. Otherwise, ask if they can refer you to a lawyer. They could provide you with a personal recommendation.
2. Check Online
If your friends and family members can’t point you in the right direction, don’t sweat it. Instead, start your search online. You can use different resources, including:
- The Martindale-Hubbel law directory
- Your local bar association website
- Yelp
Google “car accident injury lawyer near me” and start making a list of options.
While you’re online, take the time to learn more about each lawyer on your list. The rest of these tips will help you narrow down your options.
3. Look for an Attorney
As you learn more about each lawyer on your list, take the time to look at each lawyer’s professional history. First, determine when they passed the bar exam. How long have they worked as a lawyer?
Finding an experienced attorney can help you feel confident in their abilities. They’ve likely learned from hands-on experience over the years.
It’s not enough to find someone with the general experience, though. Instead, look for an exceptional attorney in pedestrian-car accident cases. A lawyer who specializes in this type of case will have a better understanding of the laws involved.
They might know about recent cases they can reference when building your lawsuit. They’ll know which procedures to follow, too.
Determine how many similar cases they’ve handled over the years. Then, ask them about the outcome for those cases. What can you expect from the road ahead?
Ask about the car accident injury settlement amounts they won for their clients, too.
Choose someone with experience you can count on.
4. Consider Their Track Record
Before choosing a car accident injury lawyer, learn more about each lawyer’s track record.
How many cases have they handled during their careers? How many of those cases did they win or lose? Consider their track record over the past year, too.
If you were injured in a car accident, you’ll want to have a capable lawyer at your side. Choose someone who is capable of winning the compensation you deserve.
If they’ve only won low car accident injury settlement amounts for their clients, look elsewhere. Instead, choose someone who can maximize your claim.
5. Learn About Their Network
As you review your options, consider finding a lawyer who has a strong professional network.
As a pedestrian injured in a car accident, you likely sustained serious injuries. A medical expert can prove your injuries have impacted your quality of life.
You might need a crime scene investigator to gather evidence for your case, too. They can prove the other party’s negligence caused the accident. Proving the driver’s negligence can help you fight for compensation.
Otherwise, you might struggle to build your case.
Choosing a lawyer with a strong network will ensure you can gather the evidence you need to corroborate your side of the story.
6. Meet in Person
Take the time to meet at least three lawyers on your list in person. Treat your consultation appointment like an interview. Make sure they’re capable of meeting your needs and expectations.
Discuss the specifics of your case. What outcome do they expect? What strategy will they use to build your lawsuit?
During your meeting, pay attention to how the lawyer communicates. Choose someone with strong communication skills. They’ll have an easier time arguing on your behalf.
7. Ask About Pricing
Before you choose someone to fight for the compensation you deserve, ask each lawyer about their pricing. What fee structure do they use? How much will filing your lawsuit cost?
Some lawyers fight based on a contingency fee basis. These lawyers will only accept payment if they win your lawsuit.
If they do win, they’ll only accept a percentage of your winnings.
Other lawyers work based on a flat fee or hourly rate.
Take the time to review each lawyer’s contract. Make sure to ask any questions you have before signing on the dotted line.
Find Help: File a Lawsuit as a Pedestrian Injured in a Car Accident
Don’t let a negligent driver get away with the damages they caused. If you were injured in a car accident, call a car accident injury lawyer right away. Use these seven tips to find a lawyer capable of handling your case.
They’ll ensure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Want to simplify your search? We can help.
Comuníquese con nuestro equipo hoy para una consulta gratuita.
COMUNÍQUESE CON UN ABOGADO DE ACCIDENTES AUTOMOVILÍSTICOS EN TAMPA
En resumen, después de un accidente automovilístico, es posible que no conozca sus derechos. Sobre todo, no luche solo durante el proceso. En realidad, nuestro equipo de lesiones personales está aquí para ayudarle con cualquier necesidad legal que pueda tener relacionada con su accidente.
Por último, que RHINO Lawyers responda a sus preguntas y revise los hechos de su caso con una consulta gratuita. Así que comience completando el “Evaluación de caso instantánea y gratuita”o llamándonos en cualquier momento, día o noche, al 844.RHINO.77.
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¿Puede presentar un reclamo por pérdida de valor después de un accidente automovilístico en Florida?
Terminado 36,000 people die each year from car crashes. If you made it through a collision and survived, you probably feel fortunate. Living through an auto accident is good, but car accidents can leave you with injuries, losses, and financial issues. One problem you might encounter is a loss of value to your car, even if you repair every problem. Lawyers and insurance companies call this diminished value, and some people can file a diminished value claim after an accident occurs.
If you had an auto accident in Florida, you might wonder if you can file a diminished value claim. Read this guide to find out the answer to this question.
The Definition of Diminished Value
After going through an accident, you might have a lot of questions about settling the claim. For example, as you read this guide, you might be asking, “what is a diminished value claim?”
To understand what this is, you’ll need to learn the definition of diminished value. You need to main details to understand it:
- The value of the car before the accident
- The car’s value after the accident and all repairs are complete
You’ll likely see a difference if you subtract the car’s value after making the repairs from the value before the accident. The main difference you’ll notice is that the car is worth less after the accident, even after making the repairs.
It’s quite common for vehicles to suffer from a diminished value after a collision, but you can’t always file a claim for this loss.
When you understand what diminished value is, you’ll understand what a diminished value claim is after an auto accident. A claim is asking for compensation from the insurance company to cover this loss.
Why It Happens
The next question you might have is, “why do cars lose value after accidents?” What would cause a car to lose value after an accident even if you complete every necessary repair?
Cars might be worthless money after collisions for several reasons. Here are some of the reasons:
- The vehicle might have damage that the repair shop didn’t see or fix
- The car’s alignment might be messed up
- The repair shop might not have used the correct parts to make the repairs
- The vehicle might have a salvage title if the insurance company labeled it as totaled
- The vehicle history report will show the collision
- People are hesitant to purchase cars that were involved in major accidents
As you can see, there are many reasons that explain why cars lose value after accidents. As a result, you should consider filing a diminished value auto claim if you suspect that your car is not worth as much anymore.
If the insurance company approves your claim, you can receive compensation for this inherent loss of value to your car from the accident.
A Diminished Value Claim Depends on the Fault Status
The big question is whether you can file a diminished value claim after your car accident. To answer this question, you’ll need to know two things:
- Proof that your car is not worth as much now
- The person that is at fault for the accident
First, you can’t file a claim for diminished value if your car didn’t lose value from the accidente automovilístico. The hardest part of this is proving that your car lost some of its value.
Secondly, you can’t file a claim for diminished value if you are at fault for the accident. You can only file a claim if the other party caused the accident and it labeled the at-fault driver.
If the paperwork shows that you caused the accident, you may want to fight this if you have evidence that proves otherwise.
The at-fault status of a car accident claim affects the entire claim, so you’ll need to make sure this is correct.
How to File a Diminished Value Claim
As you read through this guide, you might have questions about filing the claim. If you believe you are entitled to compensation for diminished value, how do you file the claim?
You might want to begin by speaking with a car accident lawyer about your case. Your lawyer can guide and advise you through the process. One thing the lawyer might recommend is getting an appraisal of the vehicle.
You can hire trained appraisers to tell you a car’s value. If you decide to do this, you’ll need to look for one with diminished value experience. Appraisers with this type of experience can provide the proof you need to win the case.
In some cases, lawyers use diminished value claim calculators to determine the loss of value in a car after an accident. In either case, the goal is to determine the diminished value and prove that it’s real.
If you can do these things, you can file a claim with the insurance company, and they’ll most likely pay it.
Ways to Maximize Your Claim
Requesting compensation for a car’s diminished value is one of many ways to maximize a car accident claim. Maximizing a claim is something that car accident lawyers are good at doing.
If you want to maximize your claim, you’ll probably want to hire a lawyer for help. They will work on this in several ways.
One thing they’ll do is to make sure you receive enough compensation for all your medical bills, including every potential future medical bill.
Secondly, they’ll make sure that you receive enough compensation to have your car repaired the proper way. This might mean asking for OEM parts instead of aftermarket parts and choosing the mechanic you want to hire.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer for Help
After reading this guide, you might know whether you can file a diminished value claim. If you want to file one or ask questions about your claim options, contact a car accident lawyer.
We offer car accident legal services in Florida. If you would like to learn more about our services and what we offer, Contáctenos hoy.
COMUNÍQUESE CON UN ABOGADO DE ACCIDENTES AUTOMOVILÍSTICOS EN TAMPA
En resumen, después de un accidente automovilístico, es posible que no conozca sus derechos. Sobre todo, no luche solo durante el proceso. En realidad, nuestro equipo de lesiones personales está aquí para ayudarle con cualquier necesidad legal que pueda tener relacionada con su accidente.
Por último, que RHINO Lawyers responda a sus preguntas y revise los hechos de su caso con una consulta gratuita. Así que comience completando el “Evaluación de caso instantánea y gratuita”o llamándonos en cualquier momento, día o noche, al 844.RHINO.77.
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¿Cuánto debe esperar de un acuerdo por accidente automovilístico?
Según el National Safety Council, the average car accident with injuries costs upwards of $30,000. So if you’ve been injured, do you know how you’re going to manage those expenses? Fortunately, an injury attorney can explain your legal rights and options and help you seek an auto accident settlement.
To get an idea of what you could expect in terms of financial recovery, let’s start by taking a look at the consequences of a traffic accident.
Common Consequences of a Traffic Accident
There are several consequences car accident victims have to deal with after the incident. While you’re likely to think about the injuries and expenses first, that’s unfortunately not where the damages stop.
If you’ve been in a crash, it’s important to keep track of how the accident has affected your life. This way, your attorney will have an easier time valuing your claim.
Physical Injuries
Physical injuries from a motor accident vary. The severity of any given injury is typically based on the type of wreck, the force at which the vehicles collided, and the proper health status of the victim.
With mild to moderate injuries, you could be looking at days, weeks, or a few months of recovery. Broken bones, whiplash, soft tissue injuries, lacerations, and contusions are possible.
If you sustain severe injuries, like a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord trauma, you could be looking at months in the hospital. Depending on the situation, you could face paralysis or changes in cognitive function.
If you lost a loved one to their accident-related injuries, a lawyer could help you take action with a wrongful death claim.
Emotional Trauma
While not as visible as physical injuries, emotional trauma can take its toll on an auto accident victim. Nightmares, loss of appetite, and intrusive thoughts are common.
In the event the accident caused permanent injuries or the death of a loved one, the surviving victim could have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Managing and moving on from emotional trauma isn’t always easy. In some instances, professional help or medication could be needed.
Daños materiales
The property damage incurred from a traffic accident depends on the type of accident and the severity of the actual collision. However, in most instances, the involved vehicles will sustain some level of damage.
Repairing vehicles is expensive. If the car is beyond repair, the insurance company could consider it totaled.
There’s also the possibility that you have valuables, like a cellphone or laptop, in the vehicle at the time of the crash. The cost of damages personal belongings can add up as well.
Determining the Value of a Car Accident
The value of your auto accident settlement is based on a number of factors, including monetary losses and personal losses.
To get the most accurate value, your lawyer will consider all the necessary factors before proclaiming what your case is likely worth in the eyes of the law.
Daños económicos
Economic damages are calculable. They include medical bills, lost property, vehicular damage, lost wages, and any other applicable losses.
To calculate what you’re owed in terms of economic losses, your attorney will collect hospital bills, pay stubs, wage statements, receipts, and any other applicable materials that prove monetary loss.
Non-economic Damages
Non-economic damages are harder to value because they are based on more subjective losses, like pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment in life.
To properly value your non-economic damages, your attorney will determine how severely your life has been impacted by the accident. They may also look to settle claims from the past to look for similarities.
Daños punitivos
Punitive damages are rarely awarded, but it’s important to understand what they are. In the event a driver is grossly negligent like they were intoxicated at the time of the crash, they can be held accountable.
Punitive damages essentially punish the at-fault party for their negligence and discourage others from taking similar actions in the future.
Maximizing Your Auto Accident Settlement
To receive full and fair compensation for your accident, it’s important to take the proper steps to maximize your claim. You can start at the accident scene itself.
Try to preserve as much evidence as possible. Take photographs and videos, and get contact information from anyone who was nearby.
It’s also important to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, you could be dealing with injuries. It will also benefit your claim to have any injuries officially documented.
In the days and weeks after the crash, remember to follow your doctor’s advice. Also, stay off social media. It’s normal to want to share your progress with friends and family, but the insurance company could use any online activity against you.
Once your lawyer has built your case, and you’re ready to negotiate, be prepared for the opposing party to offer an inadequate settlement. Remember that you do not have to take what they offer. You can counter or go to court.
In the event settling isn’t possible, your attorney can help you pursue a lawsuit. Doing so will bring your case before a judge and jury, who will ultimately decide what you are awarded via a verdict.
Learn More About Your Potential Claim
Whether you’re ready to file a claim to seek an auto accident settlement or you wish to learn more about your legal rights after a crash, our attorneys are here for you.
When you reach out to us, we’ll see up a consultation, review what you’ve been through, and help you decide how best to proceed to protect your family, your finances, and your future. Contáctenos today to learn more.
COMUNÍQUESE CON UN ABOGADO DE ACCIDENTES AUTOMOVILÍSTICOS EN TAMPA
En resumen, después de un accidente automovilístico, es posible que no conozca sus derechos. Sobre todo, no luche solo durante el proceso. En realidad, nuestro equipo de lesiones personales está aquí para ayudarle con cualquier necesidad legal que pueda tener relacionada con su accidente.
Por último, que RHINO Lawyers responda a sus preguntas y revise los hechos de su caso con una consulta gratuita. Así que comience completando el “Evaluación de caso instantánea y gratuita”o llamándonos en cualquier momento, día o noche, al 844.RHINO.77.
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Infracción de tránsito civil vs. penal: ¿Cuál es la diferencia?
Para muchos de nosotros, nuestro conocimiento de la ley proviene de los programas de televisión y las películas. Pero cuando te encuentras con una multa de tráfico, es posible que te decepciones al descubrir que no hay ningún actor asignado para hacer de tu abogado. Necesitas representación legal real, y rápido.
Pero, ¿y si se trata de una infracción de tránsito civil? ¿En qué se diferencia de una infracción de tránsito penal? ¿Y qué debe hacer en cada una de esas situaciones?
Primero, respira hondo. Este artículo explicará todo lo que necesitas saber sobre las infracciones de tránsito civiles y penales.
Derecho civil vs. derecho penal
El derecho civil se ocupa de los derechos privados de un individuo. De hecho, cuando se violan los derechos de una persona, esta puede verse involucrada en un caso de tribunales civiles. Los ejemplos de casos civiles incluyen:
- Pensión alimenticia / Custodia de los hijos
- Daños a la propiedad
- Disputa de contrato
- Demandas colectivas
El derecho penal se ocupa de la violación de leyes locales, estatales o federales. Por lo tanto, los casos de derecho penal pasan por el sistema de tribunales penales. Algunos ejemplos de casos de derecho penal incluyen:
- Posesión de drogas
- Asalto
- Asesinato
- Robo
En general, si una persona es declarada culpable en un caso civil, el castigo es menos severo que en un caso penal. Ahora que comprende las diferencias básicas entre el derecho civil y el penal, repasemos las diferencias entre una multa de tráfico penal y una multa de tráfico civil.
Infracción de tránsito civil
Una infracción de tránsito civil suele ser una falta de tránsito menor. Pero las infracciones de tránsito civil pueden dar lugar a una multa de tránsito civil y a puntos en su licencia de conducir. Puede leer más sobre el sistema de puntos para diferentes infracciones aquí. Aquí hay algunos ejemplos de infracciones de tránsito civiles:
- Un giro en U ilegal
- Exceso de velocidad
- Pasarse una luz roja
- Infracción de estacionamiento
Es posible que escuches a la gente referirse a las multas de tránsito civiles como citaciones de tránsito, infracciones en movimiento o simplemente multas de tráfico. Debido a que una infracción de tránsito civil es más común que una infracción de tránsito penal.
Qué esperar si recibe una multa de tránsito civil
Por lo tanto, si usted infringe ciertas leyes de tránsito, las autoridades le entregarán una multa en papel. En la multa encontrará instrucciones sobre qué hacer. Para algunas infracciones de tránsito de carácter civil, puede pagar una multa y no tiene que ir a la corte. Incluso si no va a la corte, es posible que reciba puntos en su licencia de conducir.
Demasiados puntos en su licencia de conducir pueden tener consecuencias graves como la suspensión o pérdida de su licencia. Conducir con una licencia suspendida es un delito penal.
Si recibe una multa de tránsito civil, puede solicitar una audiencia informal para hablar sobre el caso. También puede solicitar una audiencia formal y contratar a un abogado defensor para que lo represente. Asimismo, puede optar por asistir a la escuela de tránsito para eliminar los puntos de su licencia de conducir.
Antes de pagar una multa o ir a la escuela de manejo, hable con un abogado defensor. Es posible que puedan ayudarle con una infracción de tránsito civil.
Infracción de tránsito grave
Una infracción de tránsito penal es más grave que una infracción de tránsito civil. Puede ser arrestado por las autoridades debido a una infracción de tránsito penal, dependiendo de la situación. Aquí hay algunos ejemplos de infracciones de tránsito penales:
- Conducción imprudente (carreras, zigzaguear entre el tráfico, conducir demasiado cerca del vehículo de adelante, etc.)
- Conducir bajo los efectos del alcohol (DUI)
- Manejar en estado de ebriedad
- Atropello y fuga
- Abandonar el lugar de un accidente
- infractor reincidente de tránsito
- Conducir con una licencia suspendida o revocada
La pena por una infracción de tránsito penal depende de la gravedad del caso. Un caso de tránsito penal puede resultar en una multa, la suspensión de la licencia o tiempo en la cárcel. Algunas infracciones de tránsito penales son delitos menores y otras son delitos graves.
Las infracciones de tráfico penales graves (felonías) incluyen el choque y fuga, el homicidio vehicular y los DUI de tercera condena. Casi todas las demás infracciones de tráfico penales son delitos menores (misdemeanors).
¿Busca un abogado defensor en Tampa? Haga clic aquí para saber más.
Qué esperar si recibe una multa de tránsito penal
Si ha sido acusado de una infracción penal de tránsito, comuníquese con un abogado defensor De inmediato. Contar con representación legal le ayudará a obtener el mejor resultado posible.
Si lo declaran culpable de un delito grave de tráfico, es posible que enfrente tiempo en la cárcel, tiempo en prisión, libertad condicional, escuela de manejo y multas. También es posible que le suspendan o le retiren la licencia de conducir. Los delitos graves pueden aparecer en su expediente penal permanente. No se puede eliminar un delito grave de su expediente permanente en la Florida.
Muchas infracciones penales de tránsito son delitos menores. Esto resultará en puntos en su licencia de conducir. En Florida, si obtiene 12 puntos en 12 meses, recibe una suspensión de la licencia por un mes. Si obtiene 18 puntos en 18 meses, recibe una suspensión de la licencia por 3 meses. Y si obtiene 24 puntos en 36 meses, recibe una suspensión de la licencia por un año.
Los puntos en su licencia de conducir desaparecerán después de 36 meses. Tener puntos en su licencia también aumentará su primas de seguro de automóvil, por lo que es mejor evitar cualquier punto.
Infracción de tránsito civil vs. penal
Las infracciones de tránsito civiles no son tan graves como las infracciones de tránsito penales. Los procedimientos de un caso de tránsito penal son similares a los de cualquier otro caso penal. Se espera que el acusado comparezca ante el tribunal con representación legal.
En muchos casos, el acusado y su abogado defensor penal asistirán a un juicio sin jurado. Un juicio sin jurado es una reunión con un juez y sin jurado. Sin embargo, si la pena de cárcel es una posibilidad, el caso puede contar con un jurado que ayude a decidir el caso.
Regardless of whether you’re facing a criminal or civil violation, you should seek advice from a legal representative. You don’t want to pay money or get points on your license if you can avoid it. Learn more about handling traffic tickets here.
Hire RHINO Lawyers
If you have a civil or criminal traffic violation, RHINO Lawyers can help. We will work with you to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
Our friendly and helpful team can answer all of your questions and walk you through every step of the process. We offer a free video consultation or free case review via email. You can also chat with someone online if you have questions or concerns about your case.
Don’t wait – Contáctenos online or call us at (844) RHINO-77!
CONTACTE A UN ABOGADO DE MULTAS DE TRÁFICO EN TAMPA
RHINO Lawyers puede ayudar y guiarlo a través de un sistema moldeado por las fuerzas del orden, jueces y abogados durante décadas. Habiendo ganado casos para nuestros clientes en circunstancias similares, nuestro equipo de defensa penal sabe lo que se necesita para luchar en tu nombre.
Permitir RHINO Lawyers responda a sus preguntas y revise los hechos de su caso con una consulta gratuita. Así que comience completando el “Evaluación de caso instantánea y gratuita”o llamándonos en cualquier momento, día o noche, al (844) RHINO-77.
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Cómo lidiar con un accidente entre un auto y un peatón
Nearly 6,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the US within the span of a year. That’s one death every 88 minutes. Despite how often it happens, many people don’t know what to do after an auto accident that involves a pedestrian. The steps you follow after an accident can protect your rights. You can even file a claim to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Here are the six steps you should take after an auto-pedestrian accident. After following these steps, you can consult a car accident attorney. They’ll help you fight with your best legal options in mind.
Make your case. Read on to discover what to do after a pedestrian auto accident today.
1. Prioritize Safety
It’s normal to feel upset immediately after a traffic accident. Adrenaline can make it difficult to focus, too. First, try to catch your breath.
Anything you say or do immediately after an auto-pedestrian accident can impact your case. Focus on remaining calm. Try to recall these six steps.
First, prioritize your safety. If you experience neck or back pain, don’t move. Instead, call for medical attention right away.
Otherwise, moving without help from a medical professional could do more harm than good.
If you’re able to move, move away from incoming traffic.
Assess everyone else’s injuries, too.
Avoid administering medical treatment beyond what’s required in an emergency (such as CPR). If any other parties were injured, call for medical attention. Let a medical professional handle the situation.
Otherwise, make sure to visit a doctor after you leave the scene of the accident. Seeking medical attention could strengthen your claim. Only a medical professional can assess your injuries.
Get a report from your doctor before you leave their office. Keep track of any treatments, tests, or medications you need. Your auto accident attorney will need these documents when calculating your losses.
After your initial doctor’s appointment, make sure to follow up. Don’t allow a gap in treatment. A gap in treatment could indicate your injuries aren’t that serious.
2. File a Police Report
While at the scene of the crash, make sure to call the police. In some states, you’re legally obligated to call the police after a motor accident. They’ll gather statements from everyone involved in the crash.
They’ll also record any deaths and property damage that occurred.
When you speak with the police, remain truthful. Stick to the facts as you remember them. Avoid embellishing, which could do more harm than good.
Instead, only provide the information the police need.
Make sure to get the police officer’s contact information, including their badge number. Your car accident lawyer might need to contact them in the future. If your case goes to court, the officer might need to make a statement.
Take a look around while you wait for the police to arrive. Did anyone witness the traffic accident?
Get their name and contact information (if they’re comfortable providing it). Your lawyer might need to get a witness statement later on.
Let the police know that someone witnessed the crash, too. They’ll add the witness statement to the police report.
3. Exchange Information
As you wait for the police to arrive, take the time to gather evidence.
First, write down your recollection of what happened. It’s normal to forget certain details in the hours or days after the crash. Writing down what happened can ensure you don’t forget any essential details.
Consider what direction you were traveling in. Make a note of any relevant road or weather conditions that might have contributed to the crash.
Then, gather video and photo footage. Take pictures of the car and your injuries. Gather footage of the surrounding area, too.
While you wait for the police to arrive, make sure to exchange information with everyone involved in the accident. That includes:
- Names
- Phone numbers
- Email addresses
- Insurance information
Solo exchange contact information. Try to avoid apologizing or saying “I feel guilty.” Remember, anything you say or do could impact your case.
Instead, remain careful about what you say. Avoid speaking to anyone’s insurance company or attorney on your own, too. The insurance company will try to use anything you say against you.
Instead, let your auto accident lawyer handle the situation on your behalf.
4. Call Your Insurance Information
Call your insurance agent before you leave the scene of the crash. Let them know what happened.
They’ll provide you with a list of instructions you’ll need to follow.
Some insurance companies require you to use an app to file your claim. Make sure you have the app downloaded before an auto-pedestrian accident.
5. Consult a Lawyer
If you’re ever in an auto-pedestrian accident, it’s important to contact a lawyer right away. There are over 135,000 personal injury lawyers in the US, though.
Make sure to find an auto accident lawyer with experience handling similar cases. They’ll understand the laws and procedures that are relevant to the situation.
Once you find someone who focuses on pedestrian accidentes automovilísticos, consider how long they’ve practiced law. Make sure they have years of experience you can count on.
Determine their track record for similar cases, too. You’ll have peace of mind knowing they’re capable of handling your case.
Otherwise, look for references and reviews. You can check the law firm’s BBB and Google My Business listings. Check their website for client testimonials as well.
Most lawyers offer a free consultation appointment. Schedule an appointment to discuss the specifics of your case.
6. Consider Your Legal Options
Talk to your auto accident lawyer about your legal options. They can help you determine the best course of action moving forward.
With an auto-pedestrian accident, the biggest question is “whose fault was it?” In some cases, both the driver and pedestrian are at fault. For example, maybe the pedestrian crossed the street illegally.
Perhaps the driver was traveling over the speed limit.
Your lawyer will help determine fault. They’ll help you recognize the legal options available to you as well.
Protect Your Rights: 6 Steps to Take After an Auto-Pedestrian Accident
The steps you take after an auto accident can impact your legal options moving forward. Make sure to talk to a lawyer after an auto-pedestrian accident right away. They’ll protect your best interests.
Do you have a case? We’re here to help.
Contact a free, evaluación instantánea del caso to get started.
COMUNÍQUESE CON UN ABOGADO DE ACCIDENTES AUTOMOVILÍSTICOS EN TAMPA
En resumen, después de un accidente automovilístico, es posible que no conozca sus derechos. Sobre todo, no luche solo durante el proceso. En realidad, nuestro equipo de lesiones personales está aquí para ayudarle con cualquier necesidad legal que pueda tener relacionada con su accidente.
Por último, que RHINO Lawyers responda a sus preguntas y revise los hechos de su caso con una consulta gratuita. Así que comience completando el “Evaluación de caso instantánea y gratuita”o llamándonos en cualquier momento, día o noche, al 844.RHINO.77.
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