Below you will find some important frequently asked questions and answers pertaining to injury law and automobile accident in Rhode Island. These FAQS were authored by a Rhode Island personal injury lawyer.
When first preparing to meet with my attorney, what kinds of documents should I take along?
A: It’s important to bring all the information you have. The more info your lawyer has in his arsenal, the more effectively they can advise and represent you. Have everything regarding your case with you, particularly the accident report. Furthermore, medical records, doctor’s reports and statements from witnesses should also be presented. Pictures of the accident and any injuries are also helpful.
What kind of info will my Rhode Island personal injury lawyer ask for at my consultation?
A: Expect your lawyer to ask for information regarding medical care. They’ll want to put together a list of names and addresses of the doctors who have treated you. The list should include nurses, chiropractors, physical therapists, surgeons and others.
What should I expect from the initial consultation?
A: The Rhode Island personal injury attorney you chose let you know whether you have a valid claim. Should you employ their services, your attorney will have you sign a retainer agreement. During this time, your lawyer will have a hard time estimating your case’s value. This will depend on medical costs, the severity of pain and suffering and several other factors.
At some point along your recovery, the lawyer will present the insurance adjuster with your relevant documents and a settlement demand. If the company finds your claim to be valid and once a figure is agreed upon, they will settle. If not, it will go to court.
What determines a case’s validity?
A: If you got hurt due to someone else’s intent or negligence, then you could be entitled to compensation. It’s not always necessary to sustain an injury in order to file a personal injury suit. Such a case can also be justified by emotional distress or damage to your reputation.
What is a settlement?
If you settle during your personal injury case, you’re agreeing to a certain amount of money provided that you drop the case and seek no further recourse. You’ll have to sign a document that absolves anyone on the opposite side of the case of future responsibility. To determine if this is best, your lawyer will evaluate your damages, the likelihood of the case seeing trial, and many other factors. A settlement can be accepted at any time during the case, even if it is being appealed.
What if I’m not satisfied with my representation? Can I obtain another Rhode Island personal injury lawyer? Who covers the previous attorney’s fees?
A: In the state of Rhode Island, of you’re unhappy with the lawyer representing you, you can choose a new one at any time. The previous attorney might have a statutory lien on your case. If the case is settled or won, the first attorney maintains the right to be paid for services rendered. However, you don’t owe payment upon selecting another lawyer. Upon winning or settling your case, the previous and current attorneys will divide the legal fees accordingly.
Should I wait to get a lawyer?
A: Contact a Rhode Island personal injury attorney as soon as possible. It’s never advisable to handle an insurance adjuster by yourself.
Do I have to give a statement to the insurance company?
A: There are no laws forcing you to provide recorded statements to the adjuster. However, if the company is your provider, your contract may obligate you to provide one. It’s strongly recommended that you don’t provide statements without having a lawyer present, and you should always obtain a duplicate of the transcript.
What cases are dealt with on the basis of contingent fees?
A: Premises liability, bike, motorcycle, boating accidents, slip and falls, motorist claims, wrongful death, trip and falls, dog bites, uninsured motorist claims and others. “Every tort claim, regardless of its basis, whether intentional, negligence, or strict liability, has two basic issues—liability and damages. Was the defendant liable for the damages you sustained, and, if so, what is the nature and extent of your damages? If you can prove liability and damages, our system of justice will award you compensation for your loss.” American Bar