Amid police force controversies, many municipalities are strengthening their community policing efforts with increased resources and new strategies

Community policing initiatives are broadly defined as strategic efforts to encourage trust between police departments and civilians. Most community policing projects focus on interactions to create partnerships and problem-solving techniques to proactively address conditions surrounding crime and public safety.

In light of recent controversies concerning the use of police force, many municipalities are strengthening their community policing efforts with increased resources and new strategies.

LOCAL YOUTH TRAINERS

In Baltimore, a social justice organization is offering local police departments with specialized training on how to better interact with residents. These training programs will be led by teens who live in the communities directly impacted by police activity and monitoring.

The Inner Harbor Project not only teaches police how to communicate better with local residents but also provides urban teens with the necessary skills and information to lead these important classes. The social justice organization equips teenagers with research and professional skills to enable them to brainstorm solutions to community issues involving race, class, and culture. In Baltimore, there has been an ongoing conflict between young city residents and police.

The Inner Harbor Project aims to help teenagers better navigate public spaces in the city without causing disturbances or triggering police responses.

Likewise, the group is also working to ease tension between teens and local businesses. The Inner Harbor Project released The Harbor Card program that offers discounts to young shoppers at a number of participating outlets. The goal is to foster a more relaxed environment between young patrons and the business community – which was most likely to contact police if teens appeared to be loitering.

SMARTPHONE CHATTER

The Chattanooga Police Department recently adopted a smartphone application that allows the department to communicate with city residents regarding crime in local neighborhoods. The Nextdoor app enables police officers to send residents:

• Safety tips
• Event information
• Community alerts

The information can be shared with residents in a specific neighborhood most affected by the news. The app also functions as a private community forum where residents can post messages regarding local news such as upcoming garage sales or lost pets.

While police may post messages to residents, the department will be unable to see posts among neighbors. Residents, on the other hand, can see all messages, post to the forum or send a private message directly to the police. The app is free to use once a resident has verified they live in a neighborhood, The Chattanooga Times Free Press reported.

The overall goal of the app is to both increase communication between police and residents, as well as increase safety and awareness.

INTERACTIVE POLICING

In Messina, New York, the local police department has unveiled a new community policing initiative that gets officers on the streets to interact with youth. The True Blue program encourages officers to spend at least a half hour of their shift out in public spending time with children at playgrounds and other community centers, Watertown Daily Times reported.

Whether the police are spending time with kids playing hockey or basketball in the park, fishing in a creek or reading at the library, they are participating in the program. The goal is to nurture strong, trusting relationships between youth and police officers. If the children feel comfortable with local police, they will be less afraid to report things they see or ask questions in the future, Watertown Daily Times reported.

Messina Police Chief LaBrake said the program is designed to get police officers out of their cars and on the streets where they can learn about community needs and concerns more directly. In addition, the initiative hopes to present a more positive image of police officers than what has been presented in media coverage of recent controversies.

PLAY BALL

Similar to Messina’s True Blue program, a Chicago police department has created a youth baseball league to build stronger relationships with city youths. In a neighborhood riddled with gang violence, most kids in Englewood are unable to play outside in the summer without fear of violence or arrests.

The Englewood Police/Youth Baseball League was strategically launched in one of the city’s most dangerous neighborhoods and aims to keep vulnerable kids off the streets and away from violence. Furthermore, the league shows youths that police officers can help keep the community safe and shouldn’t be seen as a threat.

CREATE LEADERSHIP

Another way local police departments are making community policing a priority is by instating the necessary leadership to organize initiatives and be held accountable for performance. The Chicago Police Department recently named its first Deputy Chief of Community Policing to further bridge the gap between community groups and police departments.

The Deputy Chief of Community Policing will work with the patrol division and CAPS personnel to coordinate community policing efforts and projects across the city. These initiatives include moving hundreds of officers out of administrative roles and into foot and bike patrols in an effort to support interactions with residents.

MEASURING SUCCESS

It is one thing to launch a community policing project, but an entirely separate project to know if it is working or not. Lorie Fridell, associate professor of Criminology at the University of South Florida, argues that police departments should conduct community surveys at regular intervals to gauge how residents feel about the programs and police departments in general, Newsweek reported.

Another type of survey – a consumer survey – would poll individuals who had recent contact with the police. This survey would provide deeper insight into how one-on-one interactions have or have not changed since the program was launched.

Furthermore, cities should be evaluating their police data regularly to identify any major reductions, spikes or patterns in police-community activities. Departments can track criminal activity alongside resident reporting to see if greater trust has been built in the community.

Some departments, for example, have adopted ShotSpotter gunshot detection technology that can compare the number of detected gunshots with the number of 911 calls related to gunfire at the time. This data illustrates the state of relationships between residents and police by measuring people’s willingness to call law enforcement, Newsweek reported.

No matter the strategy, police departments should be documenting activities in neighborhoods where community policing projects are active, and comparing the results to other areas to identify successes, failures and best practices.

We believe that planning your estate well in advance should benefit you and your family. It does not matter what age you are, as something unexpected could happen, leaving your loved ones burdened with the responsibility of distributing your estate in the best way they can.

As estate lawyers, we can provide you with the advice you need to help divide up your assets if you die, or become incapacitated through no fault of your own.

Many people do not know how to draw up a Will and even though it is not complicated it needs to be created in a way that there are no ambiguities in relation to the distributing of your estate. Any doubts in beneficiaries’ minds could lead to unnecessary court battles that divide families who have had good family relationships before the death of a loved one.

What is a Florida living trust?

A living trust comes under the Florida Trust Code and a Florida resident draws this up during their life to benefit themselves, their spouse, and other people following their death. Florida trusts are laid out in Chapter 736 of the Florida statutes.

There are several parts to this type of trust which are:

• there is the individual who initiates the trust and plans what the living trust agreement contains. This is the trustmaker, settler or grantor.
• the trustee is appointed to administer the assets and makes sure the contents of the trust are distributed in accordance with the wishes of the trustmaker.
• the lifetime beneficiary, who is the trustmaker, settler or grantor has complete access to the income and principal contained in the living trust throughout their lifetime.

A living trust formed for estate planning purposes is entirely revocable both in full or just a part. The trust maker can alter anything in the trust while still alive and mentally able to do so. As soon as the trust maker dies, this living trust is irrevocable, so the beneficiaries of the trust and successor may not change any of the trust’s provisions.

Organizing a living trust is never an easy matter but one of our estates, trusts, and probate lawyers have vast experience dealing with these difficult real-life issues and can navigate you through the difficult decision-making required when you decide a living trust best suits your needs.

Estate planning and the probate court

When a person dies in Florida without a will, their estate is considered “intestate.’’ This typically means there are no clear instructions available for the distribution of property and assets. When this happens the Florida probate court will be involved following a petition from a surviving heir or any other individual(s) who may claim s/he has a right to the estate. The legal proceedings that follow will decide how the estate is to be divided.

If at all possible, the probate court must be avoided as it can be a costly and time-consuming process. When deceased property decisions end up in the probate court, it is the legal system alone that decides how property and assets should be fairly divided not the family left behind. These problems can easily be avoided as long as the proper documentation has been compiled regarding the distribution of your wealth. One of our probate lawyers can work on your behalf so the time and cost is minimized when it comes to the time you need to pass your assets on to your surviving family members.

Immediately following an auto accident, your first thoughts flash to your safety, that of your passengers, and the condition of your car. Sadly, other distractions come into play that you must deal with, from insurance claims to impaired drivers. If you feel as though another party wronged you in some way, causing your injuries as a result of a car accident, hiring an auto injury attorney may be yet another task you have to tackle. No one wants to even be in this situation in the first place. The last thing on your mind is money, as you try to heal and return to normal.

Seek Out a Trusted Resource

If there is an attorney who has represented you in the past, it’s wise to keep his or her business card handy such as in your glove compartment or your wallet. You really never know when you will need access to someone you can trust – fast. That way, if you are involved in a car accident, you can inform the office that you require legal assistance in a timely manner. Having a dependable and experienced auto injury attorney ready to fight for you can be comforting.

Create a List of Questions

If you don’t already have an attorney in your corner, you’ll need to find one. That means you have to do some research. Most lawyers offer a free initial consultation, during which you can ask questions. Create this list ahead of time so you don’t miss anything. Outline the details of your auto accident and keep notes.

Inquire About Background

Ask about education and professional experience. Some good questions to ask include:

• For how many years have you practiced personal injury law?
• How much of your practice is made up of auto accident claims?
• How many car accident victims do you represent annually?
• How many do you settle? How many go to trial?
• What is your success rate?
• Do you frequently handle cases similar to mine?
• Where did you attend law school?
• How many years have you been in business?
• Are you a member of any bar associations or professional organizations?
• Have you represented victims of auto accidents who suffer from injuries like mine, such as back and neck injuries, TBIs and any other injuries that may result in long-term medical issues?

Don’t be afraid to ask all of these questions. The answers you receive will allow you to make the most informed decision possible in hiring an auto accident attorney to handle your case – and indeed your future.

Inquire About Case Assessment

After discussing the details of your case, ask the lawyer what his or her opinion of your case is.

• What is your assessment of my case?
• What kind of financial settlement can I realistically expect?
• What are some of the factors that work in my favor? What factors work against me?
• Do you think we will have to go to trial?
• Do you think arbitration or mediation is a better option?
• How long do you expect my case to take?

No matter how good your lawyer is, sometimes the answers to these questions just can’t be said with certainty. However, good auto injury attorneys should be able to give you estimates based on their knowledge, experience, skill and nature of similar cases.

Gather Information

Once you have secured representation, do your part to ensure a successful claims process. That includes showing up to all appointments with your lawyer and doctor, keeping all documents pertaining to your case organized, and answering letters and phone calls regarding your case promptly. Follow the instructions of your lawyers and doctors, show up on time, and be respectful in all meetings with other lawyers and the judge.

Doing your part in the matter can contribute to a seamless process with a successful outcome.

Contact Kuzyk Law

Don’t let the aftermath and confusion of an auto accident cloud your better judgment of calling an auto accident injury attorney sooner rather than later. We are here for you whenever you need us. Call us for more information.

Whereas in the Charter of the United Nations the peoples of the world affirm, inter alia , their determination to establish conditions under which justice can be maintained, and proclaim as one of their purposes the achievement of international cooperation in promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion,

Whereas the Universal Declaration of Human Rights enshrines the principles of equality before the law, the presumption of innocence, the right to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal, and all the guarantees necessary for the defence of everyone charged with a penal offence,

Whereas the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights proclaims, in addition, the right to be tried without undue delay and the right to a fair and public hearing by a competent, independent and impartial tribunal established by law,

Whereas the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights recalls the obligation of States under the Charter to promote universal respect for, and observance of, human rights and freedoms,

Whereas the Body of Principles for the Protection of All Persons under Any Form of Detention or Imprisonment provides that a detained person shall be entitled to have the assistance of, and to communicate and consult with, legal counsel,

Whereas the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners recommend, in particular, that legal assistance and confidential communication with counsel should be ensured to untried prisoners,

Whereas the Safeguards guaranteeing protection of those facing the death penalty reaffirm the right of everyone suspected or charged with a crime for which capital punishment may be imposed to adequate legal assistance at all stages of the proceedings, in accordance with article 14 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,

Whereas the Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power recommends measures to be taken at the international and national levels to improve access to justice and fair treatment, restitution, compensation and assistance for victims of crime,

Whereas adequate protection of the human rights and fundamental freedoms to which all persons are entitled, be they economic, social and cultural, or civil and political, requires that all persons have effective access to legal services provided by an independent legal profession,

Whereas professional associations of lawyers have a vital role to play in upholding professional standards and ethics, protecting their members from persecution and improper restrictions and infringements, providing legal services to all in need of them, and cooperating with governmental and other institutions in furthering the ends of justice and public interest,

The Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers, set forth below, which have been formulated to assist Member States in their task of promoting and ensuring the proper role of lawyers, should be respected and taken into account by Governments within the framework of their national legislation and practice and should be brought to the attention of lawyers as well as other persons, such as judges, prosecutors, members of the executive and the legislature, and the public in general. These principles shall also apply, as appropriate, to persons who exercise the functions of lawyers without having the formal status of lawyers.

Access to lawyers and legal services

1. All persons are entitled to call upon the assistance of a lawyer of their choice to protect and establish their rights and to defend them in all stages of criminal proceedings.

2. Governments shall ensure that efficient procedures and responsive mechanisms for effective and equal access to lawyers are provided for all persons within their territory and subject to their jurisdiction, without distinction of any kind, such as discrimination based on race, colour, ethnic origin, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, economic or other status.

3. Governments shall ensure the provision of sufficient funding and other resources for legal services to the poor and, as necessary, to other disadvantaged persons. Professional associations of lawyers shall cooperate in the organization and provision of services, facilities and other resources.

4. Governments and professional associations of lawyers shall promote programmes to inform the public about their rights and duties under the law and the important role of lawyers in protecting their fundamental freedoms. Special attention should be given to assisting the poor and other disadvantaged persons so as to enable them to assert their rights and where necessary call upon the assistance of lawyers.

Special safeguards in criminal justice matters

5. Governments shall ensure that all persons are immediately informed by the competent authority of their right to be assisted by a lawyer of their own choice upon arrest or detention or when charged with a criminal offence.

6. Any such persons who do not have a lawyer shall, in all cases in which the interests of justice so require, be entitled to have a lawyer of experience and competence commensurate with the nature of the offence assigned to them in order to provide effective legal assistance, without payment by them if they lack sufficient means to pay for such services.

7. Governments shall further ensure that all persons arrested or detained, with or without criminal charge, shall have prompt access to a lawyer, and in any case not later than forty-eight hours from the time of arrest or detention.

8. All arrested, detained or imprisoned persons shall be provided with adequate opportunities, time and facilities to be visited by and to communicate and consult with a lawyer, without delay, interception or censorship and in full confidentiality. Such consultations may be within sight, but not within the hearing, of law enforcement officials.

Qualifications and training

9. Governments, professional associations of lawyers and educational institutions shall ensure that lawyers have appropriate education and training and be made aware of the ideals and ethical duties of the lawyer and of human rights and fundamental freedoms recognized by national and international law.

10. Governments, professional associations of lawyers and educational institutions shall ensure that there is no discrimination against a person with respect to entry into or continued practice within the legal profession on the grounds of race, colour, sex, ethnic origin, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, economic or other status, except that a requirement, that a lawyer must be a national of the country concerned, shall not be considered discriminatory.

11. In countries where there exist groups, communities or regions whose needs for legal services are not met, particularly where such groups have distinct cultures, traditions or languages or have been the victims of past discrimination, Governments, professional associations of lawyers and educational institutions should take special measures to provide opportunities for candidates from these groups to enter the legal profession and should ensure that they receive training appropriate to the needs of their groups.

Duties and responsibilities

12. Lawyers shall at all times maintain the honour and dignity of their profession as essential agents of the administration of justice.

13. The duties of lawyers towards their clients shall include:

(a) Advising clients as to their legal rights and obligations, and as to the working of the legal system in so far as it is relevant to the legal rights and obligations of the clients;

(b) Assisting clients in every appropriate way, and taking legal action to protect their interests;

(c) Assisting clients before courts, tribunals or administrative authorities, where appropriate.

14. Lawyers, in protecting the rights of their clients and in promoting the cause of justice, shall seek to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms recognized by national and international law and shall at all times act freely and diligently in accordance with the law and recognized standards and ethics of the legal profession.

15. Lawyers shall always loyally respect the interests of their clients.

Guarantees for the functioning of lawyers

16. Governments shall ensure that lawyers (a) are able to perform all of their professional functions without intimidation, hindrance, harassment or improper interference; (b) are able to travel and to consult with their clients freely both within their own country and abroad; and (c) shall not suffer, or be threatened with, prosecution or administrative, economic or other sanctions for any action taken in accordance with recognized professional duties, standards and ethics.

17. Where the security of lawyers is threatened as a result of discharging their functions, they shall be adequately safeguarded by the authorities.

18. Lawyers shall not be identified with their clients or their clients’ causes as a result of discharging their functions.

19. No court or administrative authority before whom the right to counsel is recognized shall refuse to recognize the right of a lawyer to appear before it for his or her client unless that lawyer has been disqualified in accordance with national law and practice and in conformity with these principles.

20. Lawyers shall enjoy civil and penal immunity for relevant statements made in good faith in written or oral pleadings or in their professional appearances before a court, tribunal or other legal or administrative authority.

21. It is the duty of the competent authorities to ensure lawyers access to appropriate information, files and documents in their possession or control in sufficient time to enable lawyers to provide effective legal assistance to their clients. Such access should be provided at the earliest appropriate time.

22. Governments shall recognize and respect that all communications and consultations between lawyers and their clients within their professional relationship are confidential.

Freedom of expression and association

23. Lawyers like other citizens are entitled to freedom of expression, belief, association and assembly. In particular, they shall have the right to take part in public discussion of matters concerning the law, the administration of justice and the promotion and protection of human rights and to join or form local, national or international organizations and attend their meetings, without suffering professional restrictions by reason of their lawful action or their membership in a lawful organization. In exercising these rights, lawyers shall always conduct themselves in accordance with the law and the recognized standards and ethics of the legal profession.

Professional associations of lawyers

24. Lawyers shall be entitled to form and join self-governing professional associations to represent their interests, promote their continuing education and training and protect their professional integrity. The executive body of the professional associations shall be elected by its members and shall exercise its functions without external interference.

25. Professional associations of lawyers shall cooperate with Governments to ensure that everyone has effective and equal access to legal services and that lawyers are able, without improper interference, to counsel and assist their clients in accordance with the law and recognized professional standards and ethics.

Disciplinary proceedings

26. Codes of professional conduct for lawyers shall be established by the legal profession through its appropriate organs, or by legislation, in accordance with national law and custom and recognized international standards and norms.

27. Charges or complaints made against lawyers in their professional capacity shall be processed expeditiously and fairly under appropriate procedures. Lawyers shall have the right to a fair hearing, including the right to be assisted by a lawyer of their choice.

28. Disciplinary proceedings against lawyers shall be brought before an impartial disciplinary committee established by the legal profession, before an independent statutory authority, or before a court, and shall be subject to an independent judicial review.

29. All disciplinary proceedings shall be determined in accordance with the code of professional conduct and other recognized standards and ethics of the legal profession and in the light of these principles.

So you’ve been involved in a car accident and think you may have a case. How do you find the right attorney to help you?

You already know this is an important decision. In fact, finding the right lawyer from a good shortlist of car accident attorneys may be one of the most important decisions of your entire car accident case.

We’re going to help you with that right now.

You should do careful research and select an attorney who has years of proven experience handling personal injury cases such as yours. We want to offer you some helpful tips to find that perfect attorney to get you compensated for your car accident injuries.

Top reasons why you need a personal injury attorney after your auto accident

When should you hire a personal injury attorney after a car crash, and why? What does a lawyer do for you? Do you need a lawyer for a minor car accident? We asked attorneys from all over the country these questions and here’s what they said.

Research shows that car accident victims, particularly those with perceived “minor” injuries, are reluctant to hire a personal injury attorney for a number of reasons. Perhaps they don’t think they need one, they are intimidated by the prospect of talking to a lawyer, or they don’t want to get dragged into court like they see on TV shows. Or maybe they mistakenly believe that they could never afford to hire an attorney or that their injuries aren’t that serious.

Whatever the reason, the reality is that not hiring an attorney after a car accident can have long-term negative consequences on your final settlement or award.

While it’s hard to quantify exactly how much it helps to hire an attorney since there isn’t recent data looking into this issue and cases vary widely, one commonly cited study by the Insurance Research Council from 2004 found that 85 percent of cases where the insurance company settled a car accident claim were handled by a hired attorney.In addition, auto accident injury victims who are represented by an attorney are awarded 3.5 times more compensation in settlements than those accident victims who represent themselves, according to the same study.

In this article, Enjuris developed a comprehensive list of tips and advice from reputable attorneys around the country about the benefits of hiring an attorney following a crash. Our goal is to help accident victims understand the settlement difference that having a great attorney on their side can make by providing answers to related questions like:

• What are the top reasons why people should hire an attorney?
• What advantages do personal injury attorneys offer in car accident cases?
• When should you hire a personal injury attorney after a car crash?
• Do you need a lawyer for a minor car accident?

Below you’ll find answers to these questions and more from experienced car accident attorneys based in cities all across the country, from Miami to New York to Houston to Denver.

Before you look up car accident attorneys, know what you’re looking for

Before you even start doing searches it will pay off to have a good idea of the qualities and terms you are looking for in a car accident attorney. This may differ a little according to your case, your personality, your area of the country, even.

These questions will give you a framework for a list you can check off:

• Evaluate the complete team of staff, not just the partners or people who make up the public face of the law firm. Keep in mind as you research and interact with the firm that it may not be the same person you speak with initially who will be your primary contact.
• Firm age, size, experience. Awards and leadership roles in organizations can also be good indicators.
• Good judicial connections: Find out if they participate in the local bar association and contribute to campaigns.
• Comfort with going to trial: Find out how many of their cases go to trial and the success rate of those that do. Some lawyers will have this information posted on their websites.
• Have they tried or settled similar cases in your city or county? Do they have an office near you?

• Look for experience with your type of case specifically.
• Negotiation ability: What sort of settlements they have obtained (remember, 95% of personal injury cases are settled without trial). Again, some car accident attorneys will have this information posted on their websites.
• Your personal comfort with the lawyer. This can be a big one.
• Timing: Are they too busy to devote enough time to your case? Can you get a sense of how long their cases are taking?
• Past problems: Has the attorney ever been censured or disciplined by any legal or ethics committees in the past? You will want to look this up before contacting them, so you don’t waste your time.
• Past client reviews: Be alert to what others say about them, especially on independent review sites.

The importance of hiring a lawyer after car accident

BUSINESS NEWS | 26 Dec, 2020 | EMILY ROBERTS

A road is a place where accidents can commonly happen. Even if you are careful, accidents can happen. These accidents are made even worse when they’re caused by a drunk driver or a driver who simply doesn’t care. Although these types of drivers are the worst, these aren’t the sole reasons for mishaps on the road.

In some rare instances, dangerous places, negligence on the part of road maintenance, faulty car designs, and other reasons can be behind such accidents. With that said, an innocent pedestrian, a passenger, and a driver who undergoes such traumatic events should be compensated properly. With that said, here are some things that you should do legally after a car accident.

Handling Your Insurance Company

Before we register our vehicle, we apply for our car insurance because some unfortunate events may happen on the road. It is easy to apply to any insurance company, but the most challenging thing is to claim your compensation if an accident happens. If you hire a lawyer, they will help you talk to the insurance company and compensate for the accident.

The lawyer knows about the law, and it is easier for them to talk to the insurance company rather than you, who has limited knowledge regarding the situation. Negotiation is essential when dealing with an insurance company, and the lawyer is the most suitable for this job. If you visit fortworthcarwrecklawyer.com, you would know the importance of having a lawyer in a car accident.

Regarding the verbal and written statement for the accident, the lawyer will handle all the processes and craft it to your advantage. They will also handle all the details and represent what is best for you to obtain your compensation.

Proving Your Injuries

One of the hardest parts of a car accident is to claim the compensation for who caused your injuries, as most people neglect that crucial part. With the help of an attorney, they will investigate properly and produce evidence of who is wrong and cause such injuries.

If you hire an attorney, you have the advantages of the situation as they will defend you and handle it professionally. The attorney has many resources and skills to build the case on your behalf. It also includes reconstructing the accident, consulting professional medical personnel, obtaining accident reports, and interviewing witnesses.

Knowledge For All The Compensation Of Potential Damage

Most people don’t know the aftermath of a car accident. Some people who cause the accident will likely offer to pay minor damage as people lack some knowledge of the situation. If you have an attorney who will fight for you, you will know the extent of the potential damage and your rights to claim the full compensation you deserve.

The car accident is not limited to damaged property and injuries; it also includes mental health and disfigurement, which most people neglect. If you have an attorney, they will not neglect any part of the damages included for your compensation. They will evaluate and determine the worth of all the damages.

Negotiating For Settlement

In a car accident, negotiating is not limited to both parties that cause the accident and includes the insurance company. If you don’t know the full extent of the damage and your injuries, you should hire an attorney to get the right claim for your compensation. The attorney has the skills to negotiate that will not put you in a bad spot.

They know the law’s full extent, which the insurance company cannot take advantage of. They know everything as they will properly investigate the scene and compute the full extent of damages to negotiate the right claims you deserve.

File A Case If Necessary

One of the essential benefits that you can have if you hire an attorney is to file a case if necessary. Not all people want to compensate for the damages but file a case against the person who causes the accident. You can tell your lawyer what you want as your compensation, and they will do everything they can to get what you deserve.

Peace Of Mind

What you need after a car accident is peace of mind. Most people don’t know what to do and don’t know how they handle the situation. If you hire a lawyer, they will do every process needed to take, and you can focus on recovering from injuries and mental stress. You will have peace of mind as you already know that the case is already on the right track.

Takeaway

In a car accident, people don’t know what to do or know the full extent of the potential damages. Hiring a lawyer will bring you many benefits as they know the law and know how to handle the situation. They can claim the right compensation that you deserve, and you can focus on recovering instead of handling the stress provided by the situation.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an auto accident due to someone else’s negligence it is in your best interest to contact a DC auto accident attorney as soon as possible. An injury attorney will be able to look at the facts and circumstances of your case and help you navigate through the legal system in a way that’s best for you. For more information on how an experienced lawyer can assist your claim, read below or call today and schedule a free consultation.

Hiring An Auto Accident Attorney

The main reason to hire an attorney for an auto accident case is because the at-fault party typically has the insurance company or the employer and their lawyers behind the situation. And, so they are immediately represented and they are immediately attuned to risk management concerns.

The injured party is out there by themselves and the people that typically contact an injured person about their case typically try to come across as though they there are trying to help. Unfortunately, however, this is a misnomer as they’re not there to gather information for purposes of helping the injured party, but instead for purposes of gathering information to help themselves.

They are not there to immediately try to resolve a claim. The initial contact and everything that they have is strictly for purposes of investigation to try to uncover things that will show that they are not at fault and to establish that they should not have to pay on a claim.

Importance of Contacting a Lawyer

So, when the at-fault party has the insurance company and lawyers behind them, it is unfathomable that a claimant or an injured party should not have the same representation representing their interest against those who have injured them.

Again, people don’t necessarily want to get into a contentious situation or into litigation or into a claim process, and if they’ve not had some experience in it, then they think everything is going to be objective and go smoothly. Unfortunately, nine times out of ten, those who have done that find out that that is not how things proceed with insurance companies and their defense attorneys, in fact, it’s just the opposite. They get burned by lack of knowledge and they learn the hard way.

And, you know, we do get clients who come to us after they’ve talked and given a recorded statement and have tried to handle the claim themselves, and unfortunately they’ve not navigated it well and they’ve harmed themselves in a process that could otherwise have been rectified by having a knowledgeable experienced attorney representing their interests.

What Are Some Of The First Things You Look For In An Auto Accident Case?

From an attorney point of view, we look for those elements of a case that we discussed earlier about negligence. We want to know if we can establish all of those factors: the duty, the breach of duty, the damages, and causation.

So, any case is seen through that prism in order to be able to say who’s at fault, why, and how did it happen. The jurisdictions we’re talking about, Maryland, DC, and Virginia, are all contributory negligence states which means that if the plaintiff or client is deemed even just 1% at fault, that prevents a recovery in the case.

Going back to what we advise clients, the reason it’s very important for the clients not to talk to insurance companies is because the only reason they’re trying to talk to them is to find out facts that may not be helpful to the client, but helpful to the insurance company or the defendant. This is particularly the case in light of contributory negligence. Things can get easily twisted by people talking to the insurance companies because, again, the insurance companies are not looking out for the client, they’re looking out for their insured or their defendant.

We have to look very seriously at the cause of whatever injury there has been and determine the party or parties at fault, establish the reasons they’re at fault, but at the same time we have to look at our client’s conduct to be sure that contributory negligence does not become a factor in the case.

Contact us for more information.

A car accident can cause serious injuries to virtually any part of the body. The following are some of the most common injuries suffered by motor vehicle accident victims and some of the car crash stats for 2019:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Car accidents are a leading cause of TBI, which occurs when the brain is damaged by a blow or a piercing injury to the head. Each year, 50,000 people die from TBI and another 80,000 to 90,000 suffer long-term disability.

Spinal cord injuries and paralysis (quadriplegia/tetraplegia and paraplegia)

The impact of a crash and torque on the body can cause long-term disability from spinal cord injuries. Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or total paralysis below the level of the injury.

Back Injuries

The human body and spine are not designed to sustain heavy impact, and back injuries are a common result of car accidents. Back injuries may be delayed in showing up after an accident. The pain and disability from a serious back injury can be serious and long-lasting.

Burns

If a vehicle catches fire after a crash or if skin comes into contact with hot fluids, surfaces, steam or chemicals, the occupants can suffer burns. Very severe burns may require surgery and skin grafting.

Internal injuries

When a crash forces the body into an object, or the body is hit by flying debris, damage to internal organs may occur. Internal bleeding from this type of injury requires emergency medical treatment.

Fractures and broken bones

Broken legs, ribs, arms, ankles, and wrists are common in car accidents. Some car accident victims suffer a broken pelvis. Severity ranges from simple breaks that require a cast to serious breaks or compound fractures that may require surgery to repair.

Disfiguring facial injuries and scars

Facial injuries in car accidents can be caused by broken glass or by impact with a steering wheel, dash, windshield, airbag, side window, car seat or any hard surface. Disfigurement from facial injuries may require surgical correction and could leave a victim with a lasting scar.

Limb loss and amputation

An arm, leg, finger, toe or other appendages can be severed in a crash or damaged severely enough to require surgical amputation. This type of injury can have permanent disabling effects on the victim.

Neck injuries and whiplash

Whiplash is the common name for muscle, ligament and tendon injuries like neck pain after injury to the soft tissue of the neck that can happen in a car accident. Speeds as low as 15 mph can cause whiplash, with or without a seatbelt. Severe disk injury and cervical dislocation can also result from car accidents.

Knee injuries

Knees can be injured in car crashes by smashing into any part of the vehicle. Wounds range from bruises to multiple fractures. The meniscus, or cartilage in the knee, can tear if the knee is twisted or turned abruptly in a crash.

Foot and ankle injuries

Toe, feet, and ankle strains, sprains and fractures are common in car accidents. Feet and toes can also be severed in a crash.

Shoulder injuries

Shoulder injuries can result from force absorption after bracing the hands against the steering wheel or dashboard in a motor vehicle crash. The shoulder locks in position and receives excessive force from the impact of the collision.

Wrist and hand injuries

Distal radius fractures (broken wrists) are very common in car accidents. This type of injury may require surgery, depending on the severity of the fracture.

Lacerations, bruises and “road rash”

Broken glass, torn sheet metal or flying objects can cause lacerations. Bruises are caused by the impact of the body against any object, or vice versa. Road rash is abrasion caused by friction from being dragged or skidding on pavement or concrete.

Crush injuries

Any part of the body caught between two objects being pushed together under pressure can sustain crush injury. Minor bruising and lacerations or serious damage to tissue, organs, muscles and bones can result.

Soft tissue injuries

Sprains, strains, bruising, and other damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments (soft tissue injuries) are very common in automobile accidents. This type of injury can be painful and long-lasting.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Not all car accident injuries are physical. You might suffer from mental and emotional injuries because of a car accident. You might have post-traumatic stress disorder, and things that used to be routine may become worrisome and even impossible. You may be able to recover for your mental health treatment and emotional suffering after a car accident.

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An automobile accident brings with it a host of questions. Who is at fault? Who pays for damage to my car? Who will pay for my medical bills? How much should I get for pain and suffering? Can I ask the insurance company to reimburse me for lost wages? An experienced injury attorney can be extremely helpful in negotiating the often chaotic and confusing world of insurance claims and settlements.

Because most injury attorneys work on a contingent-fee basis, and only get paid if there is a successful resolution to your claim, there is often little incentive to try to handle these types of claims on your own, unless no injuries or serious damage were involved and a settlement would be very small. If you’re injured in a car accident, then hiring a lawyer will almost always ensure a much better settlement.

Knowledge of Law and Procedural Rules

Hiring a personal injury attorney to represent you after a car accident means you will have a professional working for you — one who is extremely knowledgeable about the relevant laws and procedural rules that may affect your case.

An attorney can advise you of any time limits (called statutes of limitations) that can bar you from filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. For instance, in many states you must file your lawsuit within two years of your car accident or be forever prohibited from filing your lawsuit. An attorney will also be able to inform you about any special exceptions to the statute of limitations — for minors, for example.

Your attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf and will know how best to mitigate any possible defenses raised by the other side. In addition, once your case gets under way, your lawyer will play an invaluable role in preparing your case for trial — and even going to trial if your case doesn’t settle.

Even though a lawsuit is rarely necessary, the threat of legal action offers strong leverage when negotiating a fair settlement.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, having an attorney who is knowledgeable about the law evens the playing field, especially when you are going up against the experience and vast resources of a large insurance company.

Lawyers Do The Legwork

There is a lot of work that goes into negotiating an insurance settlement and trying a personal injury lawsuit. After you have been in a car accident, taking on this time-consuming work may be the last thing you want to do, assuming you’re able. An attorney can do it all for you.

Whereas this may be your first time dealing with the ins and outs of an accident claim, injury attorneys have dealt with all manner of claims and a variety of insurance companies. They have experience obtaining the necessary evidence to support your claim, including gathering police reports, witness statements, medical records and bills, and employment and lost wage information.

Your attorney will also be able to organize the evidence and prepare a settlement demand letter for the insurance company. If you are unable to settle your accident case, your attorney can take care of filing the necessary paperwork to start a court case and can deal with the defense attorneys on your behalf. Having someone knowledgeable handling the hard work of your case eases the burden on you, which is especially important if you have been seriously injured and are trying to recover from your injuries.

An Attorney Advocates for You

Perhaps the most important way an attorney can help you with your car accident case is by being your advocate. This means that your attorney acts on your behalf and for your benefit throughout the entire claims process (negotiating with the automobile insurance company) and even in court if a lawsuit becomes necessary. He or she will be your champion before the judge, jury and other attorneys, making sure that your side of the story is heard and that you are compensated for all of your losses.

Having an experienced and articulate advocate working for you is essential in obtaining a reasonable and fair resolution in your car accident case.

An auto accident is a terrifying experience, even if it is only a minor fender-bender. The only thing on your mind is your safety, the safety of your passengers, and the condition of your vehicle. Unfortunately, insurance issues, impaired drivers, and corporate vehicles can cause a small wreck to become a major hassle and require months of litigation. If you feel like another driver or party has wronged you in some way after being involved in a wreck, you might need to a hire car accident attorney. These lawyers are specially trained to help you recover monetary losses due to auto accidents and get reimbursed for any medical expenses that you incur.

How To Hire a Car Accident Attorney

1. Schedule Free Consultations to Find the Right Attorney

Most auto collision lawyers do not charge a fee for consultations. Unless your situation requires immediate legal advice, schedule meetings with several auto accident attorneys to find one who you are comfortable with. Chances are you will be communicating with this person and his or her office staff for several months while your case is proceeding, so you want to make sure that your auto accident attorney is professional, prompt, and has your best interest in mind.

2. Discuss Up-Front or Out-of-Pocket Fees

Many personal injury attorneys do not charge a fee unless the case is won. While some lawyers may require you to make a payment before the case is opened, it should be easy to find someone who will take on your case without requiring an out-of-pocket expense. If you are awarded a settlement as the result of your auto accident case, your attorney will then collect a percentage of the monies as his or her service fee.

3. Ask for a Service Contract

Ask the collision lawyer what his or her fee will be if your case is successful. Most personal injury attorneys will retain a certain percentage of your settlement. Ensure that you are made aware of this amount before you hire the attorney. Ask for a service contract that explicitly states this percentage and keep a copy for your personal records.

4. Bring All Car Accident Information to Your Initial Visit

Provide your car accident attorney with any and all information you have about the wreck. When you go to your initial visit, bring your automobile insurance policy, medical insurance policy, any medical records or hospital bills that resulted from the accident, pictures of the vehicle after the wreck, a copy of the police report, and any contact information you may have collected from the other parties involved. All of this information will help your attorney build your case in a timely manner and get your benefits to you quicker. Follow this guide to collect all the necessary information from the wreck site in case you can: (Source: https://driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/after-the-crash-hiring-an-auto-accident-attorney/)

5. Expect the Settlement to Take Time

Don’t expect a quick settlement. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your car accident, it could take months or even years before you receive any compensation. While your attorney should maintain communication with you throughout this process, understand that taking someone to court over a wreck is a lengthy process.

6. Be Communicative, Available and Professional

Do your part. The collision attorney you hire to represent you in an auto accident case is only one member of the team. Maintain all appointments to meet with your lawyer, keep all of your documents organized, and answer any letters or phone calls you receive from your attorney’s office. If you are required to appear in court at some point in the process, follow your personal injury lawyer’s instructions, appear presentable, and be respectful to the judge. (Source: https://driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/after-the-crash-hiring-an-auto-accident-attorney/)

If you have an attorney who has represented you in the past, it might be a good idea to keep one of his or her business cards in your wallet or glove compartment.

In the unfortunate event that you have an accident, you can immediately inform their office that you need legal assistance. He or she may send a staff member to speak with police officers or insurance agents at the scene of the wreck. Many collision attorneys will meet with auto accident victims and their families while they are still in the hospital to get an immediate start on the process. Whether you desire to have a company pay for damage one of their drivers caused to your car or sue a drunk driver for the pain and suffering their mistake inflicted upon you, a dependable and experienced auto accident attorney will be able to fight for the compensation you desire. (Source: https://driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/after-the-crash-hiring-an-auto-accident-attorney/)