Understanding the Legal Process After a Car Accident

1. Filing a Police Report: This is essential for documenting the accident and establishing key details.

2. Seeking Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, a medical examination is crucial.

3. Gathering Evidence: Collect photos, witness statements, and other documentation that can support your claim.

4. Consulting an Attorney: Speaking with an experienced car accident lawyer ensures your rights are protected from the start.

5. Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Your attorney will handle discussions to secure a fair settlement.

6. Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary: If negotiations fail, your lawyer may recommend pursuing legal action in court.

Understanding these steps can help you prepare and avoid common pitfalls. Contact Fitch & Stahle today to discuss your case.

 

One of the most misunderstood aspects of car accident cases is comparative fault. Many accident victims assume that if they share any blame for the accident, they can’t recover compensation. However, laws vary by state, and even if you are partially at fault, you may still be entitled to damages.

How Comparative Fault Works

• Pure Comparative Fault: In some states, you can recover damages even if you are 99% at fault, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

• Modified Comparative Fault: Many states bar recovery if you are more than 50% or 51% responsible for the accident.

• Contributory Negligence: A few states prevent you from receiving any compensation if you are even 1% at fault.

How an Attorney Can Help

Insurance companies often try to assign more fault to victims to reduce payouts. At Fitch & Stahle, we gather evidence and build strong cases to challenge unfair liability assessments. If comparative fault is a concern in your case, reach out to us for a consultation.

 

Eyewitness testimony can play a crucial role in proving liability and securing compensation in a car accident claim. Many people overlook the importance of witnesses, but their statements can provide unbiased perspectives on what happened.

Why Witness Testimony Matters

• Clarifies Fault: Witnesses can confirm which driver was negligent.

• Supports Your Version of Events: Their statements can strengthen your claim.

• Helps Refute False Claims: If the other party tries to shift blame, witnesses can counter their argument.

How to Secure Witness Testimony

• Get Contact Information: Always collect names, phone numbers, and addresses of potential witnesses.

• Ask for a Statement: If possible, have them describe what they saw while it’s fresh in their memory.

• Work with Your Attorney: Your lawyer can follow up and ensure their testimony is properly documented.

If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t underestimate the power of a strong witness statement. Contact us at Fitch & Stahle to discuss how we can use this evidence to strengthen your case.

 

After a car accident, victims may be entitled to different types of damages. Understanding the difference between economic and non-economic damages can help you build a comprehensive claim.

Economic Damages

These damages cover tangible financial losses, including:

• Medical bills

• Lost wages

• Property damage

• Rehabilitation costs

Non-Economic Damages

These damages compensate for intangible losses, such as:

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress

• Loss of enjoyment of life

• Permanent disfigurement or disability

Maximizing Your Compensation

Insurance companies often try to downplay non-economic damages. At Fitch & Stahle, we work to ensure our clients receive full compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. Contact us today to learn how we can help.

 

Many drivers assume that bad weather absolves them of responsibility in an accident. However, weather conditions do not eliminate liability—they simply add another layer of complexity to the case.

Common Weather-Related Accidents

• Rain & Wet Roads: Slippery surfaces increase stopping distances and reduce control.

• Snow & Ice: Black ice and snowy roads can lead to loss of control.

• Fog & Low Visibility: Limited visibility increases the risk of collisions.

Determining Fault in Weather-Related Accidents

While poor weather can contribute to an accident, drivers are still expected to adjust their behavior accordingly. Liability may depend on whether a driver:

• Was driving too fast for conditions

• Failed to use headlights or windshield wipers properly

• Followed another vehicle too closely

If you were in a weather-related accident, having an attorney review your case can help determine fault and ensure you receive fair compensation. Contact Fitch & Stahle for expert legal guidance.

 

One of the most crucial steps after a car accident is seeking medical attention. Many people delay or avoid medical treatment because they feel fine immediately after the crash. However, some injuries take time to appear, and delaying treatment can negatively impact both your health and your legal case.

Common Injuries That May Not Show Symptoms Right Away

• Whiplash: Neck pain and stiffness can develop hours or days after an accident.

• Concussions: Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and confusion may be delayed.

• Internal Bleeding: Serious internal injuries may not be noticeable at first but can be life-threatening if untreated.

• Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscle strains and ligament damage can worsen over time.

How Delaying Medical Treatment Affects Your Claim

• Insurance Companies May Argue Your Injuries Aren’t Serious: If you wait too long to see a doctor, insurers may claim your injuries aren’t related to the accident.

• Gaps in Treatment Can Weaken Your Case: Consistent medical records help establish the severity of your injuries and the necessity of treatment.

• Your Recovery May Take Longer: Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and speed up your recovery process.

At Fitch & Stahle, we strongly recommend that all accident victims seek medical attention immediately, even if they feel fine. Doing so protects both your health and your legal rights. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact us today for expert legal guidance on your next steps.

 

Many people hesitate to hire an attorney after a car accident, thinking they can handle their claim alone. However, involving an attorney early can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney Quickly

• Preserving Evidence: Attorneys can collect crucial evidence before it disappears.

• Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim, but an attorney ensures fair negotiations.

• Avoiding Mistakes: Legal guidance helps prevent common errors that could weaken your case.

• Maximizing Compensation: Lawyers understand how to calculate and pursue the full extent of your damages.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Fitch & Stahle today to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.