Technology has made automobiles safer than ever, yet traffic accidents are still a major cause of death in the United States. And despite all the technological improvements, human error is usually at fault. Drivers who are careless, reckless, inattentive, drunk, speeding, or ignorant of traffic laws hurt and kill thousands of people every year. More than 3,000 people died in traffic accidents in California in 2015, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
In addition to causing death (in legal terms, when another party is responsible, “wrongful death”), car accidents are capable of causing catastrophic injuries such as:
- Loss of limbs
- Broken bones
- Severe scarring and disfigurement
- Brain injuries
- Neck and spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
- Injuries to internal organs
If you or your loved ones have been hurt in an auto accident that was not your fault, you have the right to seek damages from the liable party by filing a claim. You can do this on your own, but your chances of success and full coverage are much better when you have the help of an experienced personal injury attorney.
Please be aware that California's statute of limitations may allow you only up to two years to file a claim. Gathering evidence and putting a strong claim together can take time. Gerald Schwab, an experienced California personal injury attorney, stands ready to recover damages for you. Call him right away.
Putting a good claim together starts immediately after the accident. Do this right after any car crash:
- Get medical attention, then get a report of your injuries from their office as soon as possible.
- Call the police or Highway Patrol, then be sure to get a copy of your accident report from their office the following day.
- Collect insurance and other key information from other motorists involved in the accident.
- Collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Gather material evidence of the accident including photos, written statements, and other items that support your side of the story.
Most importantly, contact an attorney right away. The sooner your attorney can start investigating your case, the better your chances of success.
Because the defendants in car accident cases are usually large insurance companies and corporations with enormous financial resources, you need an attorney who cannot be intimidated. You need an attorney who will fight aggressively on your behalf. You need an experienced attorney who will not make mistakes in preparing your claim, during negotiations, or in trial that could reduce the amount of compensation you receive. You need Gerald Schwab.
