Answers To Common Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents
At The Truitt Law Firm, LLC, our experienced attorneys have been representing car accident victims and defendants in litigated disputes for nearly 30 years. Our extensive experience on both sides of the courtroom is an advantage to any client we represent, and it is one of the factors responsible for our strong track record of success in and out of the courtroom.
If you are currently filled with questions following a car accident, you are certainly not alone. On this page, we’ve answered some of the most common questions we receive from clients. After reading, we invite you to ask your own questions during a free initial consultation.
What kinds of evidence should I be collecting at the scene of the crash?
This is an important question because the actions you take immediately after a crash could greatly benefit or weaken your case. We provide an in-depth answer on our auto accident claim tips page.
How much do I need to speak to insurance companies after the accident?
You will need to report that the accident happened (to your own insurer) but are not obligated to speak with the other driver’s insurance company. After reporting the accident, any further communication should be limited until you’ve had time to speak with your own attorney.
When you hire our firm, we can represent you in all communications with insurers, which is helpful for two reasons. First, many clients find talking to insurance adjusters to be stressful, especially when they are trying to recover from the crash.
Second, you don’t want to risk saying anything that could weaken your case. Like all companies, insurers are in business to make a profit, so they look for ways to reduce their own liability. As such, adjusters will be listening carefully to the answers you give. It’s safer to have your lawyer speak on your behalf.
Why should I work with a lawyer instead of just taking a settlement?
It is absolutely your right to take the insurance company’s settlement offer if you so choose. But for the reasons stated above, insurers are likely to make an offer that is far lower than what your case is worth, and it may not be enough to even cover your expenses.
Most of the time, working with a personal injury attorney can help you secure a significantly higher settlement than you would otherwise receive. And if defendants are unwilling to make a reasonable offer, we are more than ready to represent you aggressively in court.
Do you also represent insurance companies and drivers accused of causing car accidents?
Yes, we do. Rather than being a conflict of interest, our experience on both sides of the courtroom is actually an advantage to our clients because we understand how the other side thinks and strategizes. When we represent defendants and insurers, we sometimes focus on entirely disproving liability. However, depending on the facts of the case, our job is sometimes to help clients accept responsibility while keeping financial liability reasonable and limited.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident attorney?
When we represent plaintiffs, we take cases on a contingency fee basis. This means we don’t collect any legal fees until and unless we help you recover money. Then, our fees are paid as a predetermined percentage of however much we help you obtain.
In a defense capacity, we charge nominal hourly fees for representation, which we would be happy to discuss during your initial consultation.
Contact Us For Sound Advice And Knowledgeable Legal Guidance
Our firm has offices in Metairie and Covington. We serve clients in the New Orleans area and throughout Louisiana. To discuss your rights and legal options with one of our skilled and attentive attorneys, contact us to arrange a free initial consultation. You can reach out online or call 985-273-0900.