5 Important Questions Glendale Auto Accident Victims Should Ask Themselves
Ok, you got injured in an auto accident in Glendale. The pain and suffering are miserable, and you are worried about the massive pile of bills you need to pay. Instead of wasting time asking unnecessary questions, it’s better to be proactive and ask yourself these five critical questions.
1. Who Is at Fault? Me or Someone Else?
Don’t just blame yourself. Instead, recollect what happened, and ask yourself if the accident was entirely your fault. This is important because if you were at fault, you can’t make a personal injury claim.
So don’t waste time and energy in that direction.
But the good news is that it’s pretty tricky to get the correct answer to this question. It’s better to turn to your personal injury lawyer for advice on the matter.
Some accidents which seem to be your fault are not always your fault. It may be partly your fault, like the other driver may have been texting or talking on the phone when the accident happened.
In this case, you will still be able to make a claim. That is why a proper legal analysis is required to assess and define who was at fault for the accident.
2. How Severe Are My Injuries?
You have to decide how serious your injuries are and if it’s worth going through the hassles of making a claim. While it is okay to claim for a minor injury, most aren’t bothered especially if confident of a speedy and complete recovery.
However, if you are not sure how quickly you will recover, or if you will even make a full recovery, then it is better to consult your attorney about making a claim.
3. How Much Time Do I Have to Make a Claim?
The good news is that you usually have three years from the accident date to settle your compensation claim. However, the later you are at claiming after the accident, the lesser time you have.
There are, however, some situations where this time period may waver. For example, it may be extended for children or even reduced to 2 years in some conditions.
4. Do I Need Help to Make a Claim?
Well, whether you like it or not, you will find many people trying to ‘help’ you.
For example, you have your insurers, their party insurers, and their solicitors suddenly being so helpful. However, it’s better to be wary about them because their interests are murky and with ulterior motives.
Yes, dealing with third-party insurers without your representation seems tempting, easy, and risk-free. However, remember that they do not always have your best interests at heart. The chances of ending up with an under-settlement of the claim are higher under their guidance.
5. Who Should I Turn to for Assistance?
The best person to turn to for assistance and guidance is your local expert auto accident attorney in Glendale. They have a good level of local knowledge and can quickly assess your case and your circumstances.
Look for an accredited lawyer, preferably someone having accreditations from relevant and known organizations. It is also better to work with an attorney who has won more than lost cases. The chances of their winning your case are better.
Besides, they have the experience to answer any other questions you may have about your auto accident. You have nothing to lose anyway. Most of the attorneys offer a free initial consultation for you to decide if you are comfortable with the Glendale auto accident attorney or not. And if you feel they are competent and experienced enough to represent your case.