Pass this around to your family and friends. They will need it when the time comes. I suggest you mentally practice these so that they become routine.
Here we go.
In an accident, admit nothing.
If you are even 1% at fault in Alabama, you will collect nothing. Do not even say, “I’m sorry.” Trying to help someone and say something soothing is natural, but this phrase can cost you plenty. You can ask questions like “Are you hurt?” or “Should I call an ambulance?” But you never want to give even the impression that you are responsible.
There is one other time you should not talk before getting legal advice. That is when asked to give a recorded statement by an insurance company. You ultimately may have to give one, but I strongly advise that you not do so without first talking with a lawyer.
Don’t delay medical treatment.
I don’t know if it is the adrenaline that floods the body after an accident or some fake show of strength, but way too often, people will try to minimize their injuries. Imagine you were on a jury and a person waited days, even weeks, to seek medical help. What would you think? That is why seeking immediate medical treatment is vital to your receiving a maximum settlement.
Discuss these simple rules with family members, especially young adults or teens in your household. As I so often see in my practice, it can mean receiving the money needed to get better or not receiving any money at all.
If you are injured in a traffic accident or suffer any other personal injury like an on-the-job injury, nursing home neglect incident, slip and fall, or boating accident, you can talk to us at the law firm of Steele Ritchie for free. We genuinely want to help. We are local attorneys with decades of experience helping the people of the Mobile area. Give us a call at (251) 666-1212.
Allen Ritchie
Alabama Personal Injury Lawyer