It's not easy to cope with everything after a car accident. When the other driver causes your injury, they set in motion factors that can affect your finances, physical health, family, and mental health. To help you deal with all the details that follow a vehicle accident, you need someone who understands what needs to be done and how to do it.
Various Types of Attorneys
You will notice when you begin looking for an auto accident attorney that there are dozens of different types of lawyers to choose from. Only certain types of lawyers handle civil matters, and only some of them handle auto accidents. Car accident lawyers are deeply knowledgeable about state accident law and can assist you in being paid the compensation you deserve. Take care to use a lawyer that is licensed to practice in the state where the accident occurred.
What Should You Provide?
You can assist in getting things started by providing your new lawyer with some important documents. Gather the below information and be prepared to scan and email it, fax it, or drop it off at your lawyer's office:
- The accident report. Get this from whatever law enforcement office responded to the accident.
- A list of medical expenses, so far.
- A summary of your injuries and where you were treated. It's vital that you seek medical help immediately or soon after an accident.
What Should You Expect?
Your attorney will begin by letting the other driver and their insurer know that they are handling your case and all communications should go through them. Your legal team will review your documents and advise you to continue with your medical treatment and follow all orders. If you need more diagnostic testing or follow-up care, keep your legal team informed each time something happens.
At some point, you may be at maximum medical improvement (MMI). That means your injuries have stabilized and you know what the future holds in the way of additional treatment. Then, your lawyer will send the other side a demand letter. The letter contains your damages, a summary of your evidence, and a demand for a sum of money that will cover your needs and losses.
Once the letter is sent, the negotiations begin. Your lawyer will work out a settlement with the other side. If you agree to it, the case is over. If you cannot agree on a settlement, your case might be right for court.
To learn more about your compensation and what to expect, speak to a personal injury lawyer.
