Before you do anything, see the steps below.
for help right now.
- do not delay
- give no statements
- sign nothing
- preserve evidence
do not delay
Since the first consultation is free, there is no excuse for not consulting an attorney as soon as possible. He who hesitates is lost. The earlier an
attorney becomes involved in the representation of a client, the sooner steps can be taken to help a client obtain medical treatment, wage or disability
benefits, relief from the mounting pressure of creditors, and to prevent statements, loss or damage of evidence, and other innocent mistakes by clients that
can severely damage the value, or even the validity of, a claim. Since money damages is what the law provides as compensation for injury, delay often results
in the loss of substantial compensation for clients.
give no statements
Do not talk with, or give a statement to, any insurance representative, law enforcement officer, news media representative, or other person, about how the
incident occurred, your injuries, or how badly you were injured. Even if you are asked by your own insurance company to give a statement, it is still a good
idea to call us before doing so, just to make sure things are being accurately represented to you. Never post anything on the internet (Facebook, MySpace,
Twitter, etc.) about the occurrence, your injuries, or any other aspect of your case. Often, people make inaccurate statements, or they innocently and
unknowingly use words or terms that have legal significance, and which severely damage the validity or value of their claim.
sign nothing
Do not sign any release, medical authorization, or other document until after it has been reviewed by, and discussed with, an attorney.
preserve evidence
The validity, or value, of claims may be damaged due to the loss of, or failure to preserve, important evidence. Make sure damaged vehicles are not disposed
of as salvage until after your attorney has had an opportunity to inspect and photograph the vehicle. Sometimes, the vehicle itself must be taken into custody
and preserved. Keep in a safe, secure and protected area any personal property, or property susceptible to damage or deterioration, that was damaged or
involved in the incident. Save copies of all documents you have that are related to your case and bring them with you to your first appointment. Stop
posting to any social media or to the internet in any way that provides information about how you were injured or the nature and extent of your injuries.
Such statements can be copied, repeated, or transmitted in ways that are inaccurate. However, do not delete, change, or modify, any social media or internet
posts you have already made.
