PROTECTING YOUR RIGHTS IN AN AUTO ACCIDENT

By: Buta Biberaj

Knowledge can make the difference between protecting or losing your rights to compensation in personal injury cases.

You must know and appreciate the importance of time limitations and evidence in preserving your rights. Personal injuries from automobile accidents must be pursued by civil lawsuit no later than two years from the date of the accident. Evidence should be collected from the date of the accident to at least the last doctor’s visit. If you are involved in an automobile accident, take pictures of the scene, the vehicles involved, and the driver(s) of the other vehicles or your own if you are a passenger. Write down the date, time, location, facts of the accident, drivers’ information (name, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information), vehicle information (make, model and tags), witness information (including passengers in any involved vehicle) and a statement of what they saw (preferably in their own writing), and the emergency responders’ information (name, agency, and action taken). These records must be accurate and preserved for use in the negotiation or litigation of your case.

As the innocent and injured party, you may be entitled to recover for the damage to your vehicle (towing, storage and rental fees), to your physical and mental health (medical expenses (to include future care, if applicable), and pain and suffering), and financial well-being (loss of wages).

The assistance of an attorney from the date of the accident can insure that your rights are preserved and your compensation maximized.

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Disclaimer: This information is intended for general interest only. It is not intended to be nor should it be deemed as legal advice. Please consult with one of our experienced attorneys at Biberaj & Snow for the best advice specific to your needs.