Four Important Things to Remember When Meeting with a Car Accident Attorney
Being involved in a car accident can be a confusing and stressful time in your life. And while no one ever plans on being in a car accident, the chances are high that someday, you will find yourself in one. As such, you may find these tips helpful when preparing to meet with your Missouri car accident attorney.
Police Report and Information
It is best to call the police after any collision, regardless of severity, to document the incident. The police report will include both a written statement and a diagram, drawn by the responding officer. The report will provide information surrounding the traffic and weather conditions, while the diagram shows the position of the vehicles when they collided.
The written portion of the police report will also provide a detailed report on the officer’s account on the cause of the accident and who the officer believes to be at fault. The officer is responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the report. A police report is just once piece of the puzzle, but it makes a difference when dealing with insurers or if your case goes to court.
Witness Statements
Many times, police officers take witness statements at the scene, or the next day. These are important especially if they are given within minutes of the accident, and usually, they are quite accurate. Witnesses generally have no stake in the outcome of an accident giving them more credibility. Any information from the witnesses should include their contact information. In the event you file a lawsuit, your car accident lawyer in Missouri is going to reach out to witnesses to obtain more information and perhaps subpoena them to provide testimony at trial.
Financial Information
Any lost income should be included as part of your settlement or judgment award from your accident. The confirmation of how much money you have lost is helpful. You should obtain a statement provided from your employer to ensure its authenticity.
Insurance Information Regarding the Other Driver
The last thing you should bring to your lawyer is the insurance information of the other driver. This information should have been exchanged at the time of the accident, and it is best to have the attorneys at Grayson & Grayson consult with the insurance adjuster and work directly with the insurance agency.