When Experience Matters Most ...
After being injured in a car, motorcycle or truck accident, the first question most people ask is simply: "Do I have a case?"
Essentially, the answer to this question depends on what you or your attorney can prove. The more experienced your attorney is, the more likely it is that they will be able to make some type of case for compensation on your behalf.
The first step toward obtaining compensation for a personal injury or the wrongful death of a loved one is to establish that another driver, a vehicle or parts manufacturer, or the government agency responsible for the maintenance and design of the road itself — was negligent in some way.
The next step is to establish that the negligence was both the factual and legal cause of the harm. Because of this, it is very important that you seek appropriate medical care and that you follow through on any treatment the physician recommends. If you do not and it turns out that you do have a case — it can become very difficult to establish the required element of harm later. This can also make it difficult to recover the full amount of compensation you deserve.
The last step, proving damages, can actually be the most complicated of all — especially when serious or fatal injuries are involved. Our attorneys spend a great deal of time working with clients and their families directly — and with medical doctors, economists and other experts as well, to develop an accurate picture of what life was like before and how things have changed as a result of the accident.
What to Watch Out For ...
Insurance adjusters try to make contact with victims soon after an accident, often within 48 hours. Well aware that California is a "comparative negligence" state, their goal is usually to get the injured person to admit some type of fault in the accident. This can be accomplished a lot more easily than you might think. If successful, your compensation will likely be reduced by whatever percentage of "fault" is found to be yours.
Unfortunately, many people damage otherwise very good cases simply by talking about the accident afterward. Even statements made to hospital staff or visiting friends can come back to hurt your case. The insurance company will also ask specific questions about your injuries to try to limit the damages you are entitled to. For all of these reasons and more, it is critical to contact an lawyer as soon after an accident as possible.
Santa Barbara: 805-962-2022
Los Angeles: 805-284-9696
Southern California Toll Free: 866-599-3619
The Law Office of Renee J. Nordstrand handles motor vehicle accident lawsuits in the Los Angeles and Santa Barbara areas of Southern California.
If you've been injured — you deserve to have an experienced attorney representing you at all times and at our firm, you will. Call or contact us today.
The consultation is free and does not obligate you to hire us. There are no legal fees to pay unless we win.
