The providers that we work with not only can provide you with full access to medical care — even if you do not have health insurance — but will not ask you to pay one penny for your care until your case is settled. Your bills will then be paid by the insurance company that provides coverage for the person that caused your injures. You didn’t cause your accident, so why should you have to pay for your medical bills out of your own pocket?
A good lawyer can advise you on the best course of action, help you get treatment for your injuries, avoid legal pitfalls and take the burden off you – allowing you to focus on getting better. While accident victims can often settle their cases on their own, it is almost always worth speaking to an attorney first in order to determine if legal representation is appropriate. Moreover, on average most claimants receive better net recoveries when they are represented by an attorney, even after deducting fees for legal services.
Even the best drivers run the risk of being involved in an accident. To protect the health, property and legal rights of everyone involved, it’s essential to know what to do immediately following an accident with another vehicle or pedestrian.
In California it is a crime for someone involved in a motor vehicle accident to leave the scene. Failing to stop – even for small collisions or accidents that aren’t your fault – may result in criminal prosecution. Stop your vehicle as soon as possible without endangering people and property, and without blocking traffic. Take necessary actions to warn oncoming traffic to prevent further accidents.
Immediately have someone call an ambulance, doctor or hospital if you suspect anyone has been hurt. Some injuries may seem minor or be invisible until days or even weeks after the incident.
Police officers are qualified to deal with situations that might arise after an accident. Tell the officer the facts of the incident as best you can, and inquire how to get a Police Report – this may help you later if a liability claim is filed.
Note the other driver’s name, address, vehicle registration number, insurance company and policy number. The other driver is legally obligated to give you their insurance information (under Vehicle Code Section 16025) or face a fine of $250 plus penalty assessments.
Record the names, addresses, contact information and a written account of the accident if possible from any other witnesses including passengers and pedestrians.
Use your cell phone or camera to take pictures of the accident scene as soon as possible to help preserve fragile evidence. The more photos, the better.
All accidents with damage over $500 to property or people must be reported to the DMV within 10 days.
An experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer can help you get the maximum compensation for your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses and property damage. A personal injury lawyer can also help you adhere to deadlines and time limits for state and federal accident claims.
Proper documentation is the first step towards recovering from your injuries and getting full and fair compensation for them. San Diego Injury Network provides you with this handy form to help you keep good records of your case.
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