Getting into a car accident can be quite scary. The initial impact usually causes shock and pain. Then you have to deal with the other driver and the police. It can be a very traumatizing experience. The good news is that dealing with your car accident lawyer in Greenville doesn’t have to be.
There are certain things you want to do immediately after your car crash. First, make sure you call the police. Not only will they do a thorough investigation. They will also provide you with a police report that your lawyer will need to prove your case. Second, go to the hospital to be examined. Even if you don’t think you’re hurt, you should get checked out at the emergency room. Finally, once you know that you’re okay, call and talk to an experienced car accident lawyer in Greenville, South Carolina.
When you call for the first time, you can schedule your free initial consultation. This gives you the chance to sit down with someone who knows the law and has handled cases like yours before. The good news is that your first meeting will cost you nothing. You won’t have to pay your attorney until your case settles or is resolved.
How Long Will Your Initial Consultation with a South Carolina Car Accident Lawyer Take?
When you call to schedule your initial consultation, the staff at the law firm will find a date and time that works for both parties. Typically, a first consultation is about a half hour. If you case is very complicated, they may need to meet for a bit longer – possibly an hour. This is when your attorney reviews your case and decides if they want to represent you. It’s also the time when you decide if you want to retain the lawyer’s services.
After telling the lawyer your story and discussing the basics of your case, you’ll decide if you want to hire the firm. There is a chance that your lawyer will want you to meet with them again to get more detailed information. Or, they may have you schedule an appointment with their paralegal so you can answer any questions they may have. One way to avoid this is to bring all of the pertinent information with you to your initial consultation.
There is Certain Information You’ll Want to Bring to Your Initial Consultation
Regardless of the facts of your case, there are certain things you should bring with you to your initial consultation. This is when your attorney gets their first peek at your situation. The more information they have, the better their evaluation. It also gives them a chance to make an evaluation of how much your case may be worth.
If possible, you’ll want to provide your attorney with the following during your free consultation:
- Copy of the police report or accident report
- Copies of any letters or correspondence you have received from the insurance company
- Copies of all correspondence from the defendant or their lawyer
- Medical records and proof of your injuries
- Pictures of the crash scene
- Copies of any bills you have paid related to the crash such as a mechanic’s bill or out of pocket medical expenses
Of course, your Greenville accident lawyer may need additional information. But this will give them a good picture of what you’re up against. It will also help them determine if they think your case has merit. If you’re meeting with your lawyer by phone or video, try to fax this information over ahead of time. This way, they can have it with them before your meeting.
When is it Time to Call and Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation with a Skilled Car Accident Lawyer?
Some people think they should wait until the insurance company denies their claim before they call a lawyer. This is not always the case. If you sustain serious injuries in the crash, it’s a good idea to have an advocate by your side from the start. You should call an experienced car accident lawyer in Greenville as soon as possible after the accident. This way, the evidence is fresh, and you can ensure that your claim is handled properly from the very start.
And remember – the initial consultation won’t cost you a dime. You can sit down with one of our skilled attorneys and discuss your case. The insurance company is going to have a lawyer on their side and you need to have one on yours.
