Sometimes the unexpected happens. You’re driving home, ready to relax after a long day. Suddenly, you feel the impact and loss of control. You’ve been in an accident, and that relaxing evening at home is now delayed. Now, you have important decisions to make and things to do. An accident attorney in Modesto, California can assist you during this inconvenient, stressful time.
In fact, there are a few reasons why you may want to hire a car accident attorney. Consider these reasons when deciding what to do after an accident.
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1. The Attorney Is Your Advocate and Ally
In the days following an accident, you may not only be dealing with a damaged vehicle but possibly also injuries and time off from work to recuperate. While you’re coping with the feelings of shock and discomfort after an auto accident, it’s always good to have someone who’s on your side and ready to assist you.
An accident attorney in Modesto can be your advocate and ally. Armed with your accident statement and any other documentation you might have, your attorney can go to work to get you the compensation you deserve.
2. The Attorney Will Investigate for You
Be sure to gather information at the scene of the accident if you’re able. Try to exchange information with the other driver (names and insurance information) and take photos of both vehicles too. This information will help your attorney get started on your case even more quickly.
Sometimes, however, getting these details may not be an option. The other driver may have been uncooperative, a possible indicator that they were driving without insurance or a valid license. Perhaps you were injured and you couldn’t exit your vehicle until the paramedics arrived, and you may have left the scene in an ambulance.
While that’s unfortunate, hopefully, police came to the scene and made a report. Your attorney can request a copy of the California traffic accident report and use the information in it to build your case.
Your attorney will also work to:
- Estimate your future medical expenses and accident-related expenses to determine how much is needed to pay for your rehabilitation and recovery.
- Document details of the accident scene, including road conditions and weather to determine their possible roles in contributing to the driving conditions leading to the crash.
- Determine who is at fault for the accident.
3. The Attorney Can Speak on Your Behalf
Once you’ve hired an accident attorney, they’ll take up your case, speaking on your behalf. Your attorney can file auto insurance claims for you, and the insurance companies will speak only to your attorney. Your lawyer will also handle the medical providers who treated you, so you don’t have to talk to them about your medical bills. If there were witnesses to the accident, your attorney can interview them to support your case too.
Essentially, your auto attorney can handle any conversations that are needed in order to resolve your case. This means you’ll receive fewer phone calls, giving you greater peace of mind while you’re dealing with the aftermath of an auto accident.
4. The Attorney Will Fight for Your Rights
Motorists have rights, and laws vary from state to state. California is an “at-fault” state. That means that if the accident is your fault, you’re responsible for paying for the damages to the other vehicle as well as your own. You’re responsible for paying for medical bills if any injuries occur too.
However, you aren’t required to admit fault at the accident scene, even if the police conclude you are at fault. Immediately after an accident, you may be in a state of shock and not fully capable of evaluating what has just occurred. In that case, it may be best to allow the police officer to investigate the crash scene and make the report.
Your accident attorney in Modesto is familiar with local and state laws regarding drivers and insurance, so they can work on your behalf to fight for the best possible outcome for your case. It doesn’t matter if you believe you are at fault or not. Your attorney will fight for you.
5. The Attorney Can Help You Get the Best Settlement
Your lawyer is a specialist who has assisted many others in getting settlements after auto accidents. Insurance companies look out for their own best interests and may offer settlements that are far less than what you deserve. Your attorney will work to secure the largest possible settlement for you.
Like all cities, Modesto is unique in its own way, and accident attorneys there are familiar with the area and the locations where accidents are most frequent. State Highway 99 is a well-traveled area where quite a few accidents have occurred. Several shopping center entrances along McHenry Avenue make that area a hotspot for accidents too, due to sudden stops made by motorists, as well as drivers entering and exiting parking lots.
Due to their work in handling accident cases, local auto attorneys are familiar with local law enforcement, medical facilities and insurance carriers. They work with clients just like you every day and know what to do in order to help you.
Speak With an Accident Attorney in Modesto
Accidents are inconvenient and always unwelcome. They’re also unpleasant and frustrating. However, you don’t have to go through this alone. An accident attorney in Modesto is ready to hear your story and help. Remember though – these matters are time-sensitive, so don’t delay. Take action today!
About Carson Derrow
