If you have been in an auto accident, you may be considering hiring an attorney to help you get the compensation you deserve. But before you hire a lawyer, it’s important to understand what questions they will likely ask. Knowing the answers ahead of time can save both you and your attorney time and ensure that your case is presented to the best of their ability. Here are seven questions that your auto accident attorney will likely ask.
What Happened Leading Up to the Accident?
Your attorney will want to know what happened during the accident and any events leading up to it. This includes how fast each driver was going, who had the right of way, and whether either driver was distracted or impaired. Ensure that you provide as much detail as possible so your attorney can build a strong case for your claim.
Were There Any Witnesses?
If there were witnesses at the scene of the accident, ensure that you provide their contact information so that your attorney can talk to them about what they saw firsthand. Witnesses can add valuable insight into what actually occurred during the accident, which can be very helpful in building a strong case for your claim.
Are There Any Photos or Videos of the Scene?
Photos and videos of an auto accident can be extremely helpful in proving liability, so if you have any photos or videos from before or after the incident, make sure that you share those with your auto accident attorney. Even if they are not directly related to the incident itself, such as photos taken from traffic cameras along busy roads near where your accident occurred can be used by your attorney as additional evidence should your case go to court.
Have Any Police Reports Been Filed?
The police report from an auto accident is one of the most important pieces of evidence in determining liability in a personal injury claim. If a police report was filed following your auto accident, make sure that you provide a copy to your attorney. Hence, they have all the relevant information when building out their case for damages on your behalf.
What Kind of Medical Care Did You Receive?
Your medical records are essential in determining both liability and damages in an auto injury claim; therefore, it’s important that you inform your attorney about all medical care received after being involved in an auto-related incident—even if it was just over-the-counter medication taken at home or visits to urgent care facilities instead of emergency rooms or specialists’ offices—so they can accurately calculate damages owed by defendants should they win your case.
Have There Been Any Insurance Claims Filed?
Insurance companies typically require policyholders (in this case, yourself) to file claims shortly after being involved in an auto-related incident. If this has been done following yours, ensure that you provide copies of those documents to your lawyer as soon as possible. Hence, they have all the necessary information when presenting their argument for damages.
Are There Any Other Parties Involved?
Third parties, such as vehicle manufacturers, may also be liable for damages caused by defective parts. Before filing a claim with multiple parties, ensure all relevant details are gathered first.
Hiring an experienced auto accident attorney is oftentimes key when filing personal injury cases related to motor vehicle accidents; however, it’s also important for potential clients like yourself to come prepared with relevant information regarding these examples. This helps strengthen arguments by legal representatives seeking fair compensation on your behalf. You never know when an accident could happen, so be sure to have this basic knowledge just in case!
Author information: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter: @RachelleWilber
