When you’ve been in an accident, you often have a lot of questions. You’re trying to understand what’s happened, who was at fault and what your legal rights are. You might be tired of dealing with insurance companies or wondering if you have a case. But don’t give up hope. You have options. Most people who get into car accidents are protected by the insurance policy on their car and by the insurance policy on other cars involved in the accident. Here are tips for finding a lawyer and getting the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Get in touch with your own insurance company
Call your insurance company and tell your representative you think you have a case. The insurance company will send a representative to talk with you and file an official claim on your behalf. That’s an important step in the process. The representative can explain what to expect and give you advice. If you’re at fault, the representative will probably take your side and try to get your insurer to pay for part or all of your medical costs, lost wages, and car repair costs.
Find a lawyer
Locate a Pittsburgh car accident lawyer who has handled similar car accident cases before (most are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum) and ask if he or she would like to be on your case. Your insurance representative should be able to give you recommendations.
Accident victims can win big
You might wonder if it’s worth the time and trouble to hire an attorney. The truth is, accident victims often win big in court. If a jury decides against the other driver, you could receive compensation for your medical bills, car repairs and pain and suffering. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, find out how much you could get with our free online injury evaluation form.
Get a copy of the police report
Ask the police or the other driver for a copy of the accident report. The report will help you and your lawyer determine who is at fault.
You might have to negotiate with the insurance company
If your case goes to court and you win, you’ll be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and repair costs. Sometimes it takes a while for a judge or jury to reach a decision about how much you should get.