If you have ever been involved an auto accident in Oregon you know that it alone can be a traumatic experience. When personal injury is added to the equation it can be physical and emotionally draining as well as have a significant impact on your family’s economic situation. Personal injuries from auto accidents can result in thousands of dollars in medical expenses, property damage and current lost wages as well as future earnings potential.
In order to protect yourself it is vital that early on you retain the help of an Oregon attorney who is experienced in auto accidents involving personal injury. Because it can take some time to find an attorney to represent you in your case it is important that you take certain steps to protect your rights, preserve the evidence and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to under the law. Also, if you know what to expect following an auto accident you will be better equipped to deal with the situation.
The following are some areas of consideration following an auto accident where you have sustained a personal injury.
Documentation
The most important thing you can do to help your attorney prove your case is to document everything. Write down all contact information regarding all parties involved in the accident. These include drivers, passengers and witnesses. If possible obtain full names, addresses and phone numbers. Also, be sure to write down the names of the police officers who responded to the accident. In addition to contact information, be sure to obtain the names of the individuals to whom the vehicles are registered and insurance information including the names of the insurance companies and policy numbers.
When you arrive home and while the accident is fresh in your mind you should also write down exactly what happened for future reference. This written statement should not be provided to anyone except your Oregon auto accident personal injury attorney.
Also, document any other information which might be helpful to your personal injury attorney in investigating and proving your case. Things to consider include whether or not anyone at the scene admitted to being at fault and whether anyone appeared to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
What to Expect
Following your auto accident you will likely be contacted by an adjuster for one of the insurance companies insuring the other vehicles. The insurance adjuster will have a lot of questions and may want to take your statement either in person or over the telephone. It is important that not give a statement until you have discussed the matter with your attorney. Explain that you are more than willing to cooperate with their investigation but prefer to have your auto accident personal injury attorney present. Be prepared for the insurance company to make a small settlement offer to you in exchange for your waiving all your rights to future damages. Do not accept any offers until you have had a chance to discuss your case and obtain advice from a qualified auto accident personal injury attorney in Oregon.
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