Covering For You When You Need It

I’ve been in an automobile wreck. What should I do?

First, if anyone’s hurt, call for paramedics, and then call the police. Next, get all the information you can at the scene, including the at-fault driver’s auto insurance, driver’s license, and contact information. Also, collect any witness information. If possible, take photographs of the scene. If you’re hurt, get medical treatment, and then, as soon as you can, contact an attorney. 

What should I look for when I’m selecting an attorney?

It’s preferable to have an attorney that regularly practices in the county where the case will be heard or where the accident happened. When interviewing an attorney, ask them about their experience level, the last time they tried a case, and their record in the courtroom. For example, in the last case we tried in Montgomery County, the pretrial offer was $16,000, and the jury awarded our client more than $2 million. Also, find someone that you get a good feeling about and that you feel comfortable working with. Certainly, check online for their reviews.

What are some general pointers someone who’s been in an accident should consider?

Don’t offer up any recorded statements until you’ve consulted with a lawyer. Don’t post anything about the accident or your injuries on social media. Throughout the duration of the litigation, be very careful about anything you post online. Get medical treatment as soon as possible and adhere to the prescribed regimen, as any gaps in treatment can negatively affect the case.

How much will an attorney cost me?

Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if, and when, there is a recovery. If there is no recovery, you’ll never get a bill from our office. In terms of litigation expenses (things like ordering medical records and filing fees and deposition costs, etc.), we will front those as well. There’s no up-front cost to the client unless, and until, we win.

I don’t have health insurance. How can I get examined and treated?

If you don’t have health insurance, we have a great network of doctors in and around the city, including spine specialists, neurologists, orthopedist, chiropractors, and more, who will treat you. So, if you’re uninsured, that’s ok. We can still arrange for treatment.

What if my accident is the result of a defect in my vehicle?

If you have a case where you’re concerned about there being a defect in the automobile that led to the accident, it is hyper-important to preserve that vehicle. Defects could be things like seat belt defects, airbag defects, unintended acceleration, etc. Don’t sign the vehicle over to your insurance company; make sure you keep that vehicle as is, so that it can be analyzed by experts. If there is any computer data to download, they do all that before you get rid of the car. The Leigh Law Firm has successfully litigated cases against Daimler Chrysler,  General Motors, and Ford Motor Company for products liability, where the car is inherently dangerous or has a design or manufacturing defect.