After being involved in a car accident, there are many things you need to do to protect your rights. The most important one is to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer. A lawyer understands the ins and outs of the law and can help you navigate the legal process. However, the lawyer needs certain information from you to provide the best possible representation. It might be tempting to withhold some details or lie, but doing so can jeopardize your case. It’s better for your lawyer to hear incriminating or embarrassing information from you than from the opposing counsel or insurance company.
That said, here are 5 things you need to tell your car accident lawyer right away:
Facts about the Accident
Your lawyer needs to get all the facts about the accident to build a strong case on your behalf. This includes when and where it happened, who was involved, and what led to the accident. You should also give them details of the other driver, including their name, contact information, and insurance information. You should also let them know:
- Whether you admitted fault: Did you speak to the at-fault’s party insurer and admit fault in any way? Did you apologize at the scene of the accident? It’s always a good idea not to admit fault as this might be used against you.
- About the injuries you sustained at the accident: Your lawyer needs to understand the nature and extent of your injuries to accurately assess your case’s value.
- Any witness information: Provide an witness contact details that you gathered so your lawyer can speak with them. Witness testimony can be helpful in proving what happened and who is at fault.
- What happened after the accident: This includes whether the police were called, whether you were given a ticket, and what medical treatment you received.
- The hospital or medical center where you sought treatment: This is important as your lawyer will likely request your medical records to support your claim for damages.
- Whether you’ve made an insurance claim: If you’ve already made a claim with your insurer, or the at-fault driver’s insurer, your lawyer will need to know the details.
Prior Accidents, Injuries, and Illnesses
You also need to tell your lawyer about any prior accidents, injuries, or illnesses to give them a better chance of success in building a strong case
- Prior accidents: If you’ve been in a previous car accident, your lawyer will need to know how it may impact your current case. For instance, if you were hurt in a previous accident, it could weaken your argument that the other driver is responsible for your injuries in the current accident.
- Injuries and illnesses: Any prior injuries or illnesses can also affect your case. For example, if you have a history of back problems, your lawyer will need to know this to determine whether the other driver is liable for exacerbating your condition. Similarly, if you were ill at the time of the accident, this could affect your ability to recover damages.
Your Criminal History
If you have any previous criminal convictions, especially DWI or reckless driving, this will be important for your lawyer to know. This is because it could make it more difficult to prove that the other driver was at-fault if you have a track record of risky driving. Your lawyer may not perform a background check on you, but the opposing counsel will.
Felony or misdemeanor convictions involving fraud or theft can discredit your entire personal injury claim if you are suing for damages related to lost wages or property damage. Informing your lawyer beforehand can allow them to prepare you on how to answer questions about your criminal history. In some cases (like if the convictions are 10+ years old), the lawyer might be able to keep them out of trial altogether.
Your Employment Status and Income
If you’ve been hurt in the collision, you may be out of work for an extended period. As a result, you may be facing a significant financial burden. That’s why informing your lawyer about your employment status, and income is important. This information will help your lawyer accurately value your lost wages and determine the kind of financial compensation you may be entitled to.
If You File for Bankruptcy
If you’ve filed for bankruptcy, this will be important for your lawyer to know. This is because any personal injury settlement you receive will likely be considered part of your bankruptcy estate. As a result, your creditors may be entitled to a portion of the settlement. Informing your lawyer about your bankruptcy status will help them to protect your settlement and ensure that you receive some, if not the full amount, you’re entitled to despite the bankruptcy.
When in Doubt, Tell Your Lawyer Everything
Generally, it is best to err on the side of transparency. After all, your lawyer can’t properly evaluate your case and give you the best possible advice if they’re unaware of all the relevant facts. So if you have doubts about whether or not to reveal something, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and tell your lawyer everything.