Car and Auto Accidents

Document the Accident

Seeking medical attention immediately after an accident is crucial, not only for your safety but for documentation. Insurance companies and juries can view a lack of treatment as a sign that you are fine without compensation.

Taking photographs of the accident, injuries, and vehicles is also crucial. This will act as proof that can be used for liability and damages. Anything you say can be used against you, so keep the evidence off of social media. If anyone attempts to contact you and ask questions, do not answer anything without consulting with your attorney.

Journal and document the accident to the best of your ability. Write about your pain level, photograph bruising, write doctors appointments on your calendar, etc. You also need to make sure you run everything by your attorney; for example, if you have recently filed for bankruptcy or if you are filing for social security disability benefits.

Establishing Fault

It is also crucial to establish fault when necessary. If you're more than 50% responsible for the crash, you cannot seek compensation. We are here to represent you during this time.

Legal assistance in necessary when determining where liabilities lie. You are responsible for paying your own medical bills until a settlement is agreed upon, so it is important to ensure a verdict is in your favor.  Each car accident is different so each claim is unique:

• Rollover
• Defective machinery
• Hit and runs
• Drunk driving
• Collisions
• Uninsured drivers

Depending on the accident, your health and car insurance payments could get paid back. You are usually responsible for making up any lost wages until the settlement is closed. We recommend using any short-term disability policies your work has during the decision making time.

Call (515) 209-2854 and our team at Thomas J. Reilly Law Firm P.C. will ensure that you are well represented.