FAQs

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  How much does an attorney cost?

  Answer is: The attorney referral service at The Personal Injury Professionals is a free service to the public but the attorneys do charge for legal representation. After an attorney has consulted with you and has decided to take on your case they usually charge a contingency fee. This means that the attorney agrees to take on your case and be paid a percentage of the final settlement offered to you by the insurance company. Although this is the typical arrangement, it is imperative that you discuss with the attorney thoroughly so that both parties understand the dynamics of the case.

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  Do I stay at the scene?

  Answer is: Never leave the accident scene until it’s appropriate to do so. If you leave, particularly where someone has sustained injuries or was killed, you can face serious criminal penalties for being a hit and run driver.

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  Do I Check on All Drivers and Passengers?

  Answer is: Before assessing property damage, make sure everyone involved in the accident is okay. Get medical attention for anyone who needs it. If a person is unconscious or has neck or back pain, don’t move them until qualified medical help arrives, unless a hazard requires moving the person.

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  Do I Call the Police?

  Answer is: If there’s significant property damage, physical injury, or death, you need to call the police. Ask that a police report be filed in situations where cops do arrive at the scene, and obtain the name and badge numbers of the responding officers.

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  Do I Exchange Information?

  Answer is: Get the names, numbers, addresses, drivers’ license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance information from all drivers involved. If there are passengers, also obtain their names, numbers, and addresses. In talking to other drivers, try to be cordial and cooperative.

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  Do I Talk to Witnesses?

  Answer is: Ask every witness what he or she saw. Get their names, numbers, or addresses, if possible. Ask locals if they’ve ever witnessed other accidents in the same place.

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  Do I Inform My Insurance Company?

  Answer is: Promptly tell your insurance company that you’ve been in an accident. Cooperate with them and tell them the truth about what happened and the extent of your injuries.

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  Do I Take Pictures?

  Answer is: Take photographs of any damage to your vehicle as soon as possible after the accident. Photos helps your insurance adjuster determine how much you should be compensated for the damage to your car and can help in court.

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  Do I Keep Track of My Medical Treatment?

  Answer is: Keep records of any doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, or other medical professionals that you receive treatment from, and each medical provider that referred you to other caregivers. Keep a detailed account of the treatments or medications you receive

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  Do I Get a Property Damage Valuation?

  Answer is: Obtain your insurance company’s damage valuation. If you aren’t satisfied with how your insurance company has valued your vehicle, don’t give up. Get two independent repair estimates or replacement quotes.

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  Do I Use Caution in Discussing the Incident?

  Answer is: Don’t talk to anyone about the accident other than your lawyer, your insurance company, and the police. Don’t talk to a representative of another insurance company, without the knowledge of your attorney or insurer.

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  Do I Consider Hiring an Attorney?

  Answer is: If anyone was injured in the accident, it’s best to consult an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you maximize your recovery if you’re injured or better defend yourself if you’re at fault.