Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island Personal Injury Cases

Q: Do I have a legal claim?
A: One of the first questions I’m generally asked is whether there is a viable legal claim in relation to a personal injury case. The only way for me to provide an honest and complete answer is to go through the specifics of your case. I encourage you to get a free consultation so I can offer you my feedback regarding your claim.

Q: Why do I need an attorney for my case?
A: Following an accident, it’s common for people to want to settle quickly so that they can move on with their lives. This results in some hasty decisions, including taking on legal issues on their own. However, this could be detrimental to your case. From the moment you are injured, it’s vital that you talk to a qualified Rhode Island personal injury lawyer, even before you talk to any insurance company. That way you can be certain all necessary steps are taken in the right order.

Q: Should I just accept the settlement offered by the insurance company?  
A: If there’s one thing I hope you take away from this, it’s that insurance companies are in the business of minimizing payouts. It’s the only way they can maximize profits. The first offer by the insurance company will be, without question, lower than you deserve. Adjusters will often times use the enticement of “fast settlement” as a way to have you agree to an amount that’s far below what your case is worth. Retain the services of a Rhode Island personal injury lawyer who’ll ensure that the insurance company pays the full value of your claim.

Q: If I’ve just been in an accident, what should I do?  
A: This is a great question. Clearly, following an accident, you’ll be shaken up and potentially disoriented. Here are a few tips to help ensure you do everything you should following an accident:

1. Ensure safety – If there are any injuries, call the police and tell them you need medical assistance. Letting the police know of injuries will ensure it’s added to the police report, which will become an important document in your claim.
2. Ask questions – You’ll need the full names, addresses, and phone numbers of everyone involved in the accident, to provide to your insurance company. This includes driver, passengers, pedestrians and witnesses.
3. Document – Take notes (and pictures) of the accident. Jot down what the weather was like. Take note of any damage to vehicles or property. Take down license plate numbers, and the make and model of the other car involved.
4. Blame? – Did anyone take blame for the accident? If so, record this for future use.
5. Contact your lawyer and insurance company – We suggest you contact your personal injury lawyer first, so that he can provide you the right type of support prior to contacting your insurance company. Regardless, you will eventually need to contact your insurance company (and the sooner, the better).