Questions

First and foremost, get medical attention – even if you do not suspect anything is physically wrong. Frequently, back, head or other trauma takes time to manifest, so it is better to seek medical attention right away.

At the scene of the accident, make sure to collect as much information as possible: names of all parties involved (including the name of the company, if applicable), the vehicle and license plate number, name of the insurance company, and all the contact information. Gather the names and contact information of any witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene and specific damages to all involved vehicles. Obtain the name of the reporting police officer and provide them with all the pertinent information as to how the accident occurred.

Be careful what you say to an insurance company. We strongly recommend that you NEVER give a statement to an insurance company, even if it is your own. Most insurance companies seek ways to minimize the amount they have to pay on claims, so they want to limit potential liability and/or get you to settle for less than you deserve.

Seek the help of an attorney before talking with an insurance company – particularly the other party’s insurance company. Higuera Law Offices offers 24-hour service and free consultations. A call to our offices immediately after – or even at the scene of – an accident can go a long way towards ensuring your rights are protected.

The monetary compensation you are entitled to will vary, but is generally based upon the following factors:

• The type and severity of the injuries incurred
• Medical and other expenses, both past and future
• Lost wages, including loss of future earning capacity
• Physical and/or mental impairment and disability
• Pain, suffering and enjoyment of life
• Property damage

Every case is unique and different. How long it takes to recover monetary damages may depend upon the complexities of the case, the receptiveness of the insurance company or other parties to deal reasonably or the severity of the injuries involved. In any case, the more tenacious and committed your legal representative is, the more likely your case will be settled in a just and quick manner. That’s why we do not sit on files. We follow up, relentlessly pressuring the insurance company to resolve your claim. That’s why our clients’ cases are typically settled faster than those of other law firms, which means you’ll get your money more quickly.

At Higuera Law Offices, your initial consultation is free. We will answer all of your questions and concerns completely and without ever rushing you. We will take the time to discuss the particulars of your case with you, recommend the steps you should take and provide you with an idea of the process, timing and potential monetary recovery you can expect. Plus, you pay us nothing until the case is settled – and only if we make a successful recovery for you. Typically, our contingency fee is 33.3% of the settlement. In unique situations, fees may be slightly more or less, but will never be a surprise.

A personal injury claim has to do with a personal injury or death caused by the negligence of others. The most typical types of personal injury claims arising from:

• Auto and truck accidents
• Bicycle accidents
• Boating accidents
• Defective and/or dangerous products
• Dog bites
• Motorcycle accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• Trip and falls
• Wrongful death

There are statutes of limitations in place that may limit the amount of time available within which you must file a claim for monetary recovery due to an accident or another personal injury. These will vary by type of claim and the entity involved – whether individual, corporate or government – and can be as short as six months from the date of the accident. The sooner you act, the better. If you have any concerns about the length of time that has passed since your injury, a quick call to Higuera Law Offices can answer whether you still have time to file or not.