An auto accident in Rhode Island can have serious consequences, including medical bills, lost wages if you can’t work while you recover from your injuries, and pain and suffering.
Perhaps you’re a responsible driver who obeys the rules of the road and strives to avoid putting yourself or others in harm’s way. Still, you might nevertheless be involved in a Rhode Island car accident due to the negligence of another party. If this has happened to you, a Rhode Island car accident lawyer may be able to help you get the compensation you deserve.
What Kinds of Car Accidents Do Lawyers in Rhode Island Take?
Rhode Island car accident attorneys handle a variety of accident cases, including:
- Speeding accidents
- Drunk driving accidents
- Distracted driving accidents
- Commercial truck accidents
- Rideshare accidents
- Hit-and-runs
- Rollovers
- Merging accidents
These are just a few examples. A Rhode Island auto accident lawyer may accept a case if there is strong evidence that an accident was due to someone's negligence.
This is because Rhode Island is an at-fault state for accidents. In at-fault states, car accident victims may seek compensation for such losses as medical bills, lost wages, and more if their accidents resulted from someone else’s negligence. A victim can pursue the compensation for which they’re eligible by filing a claim with the insurance of the party who caused their accident.
Why Should I Work With a Car Accident Attorney?
Hiring a Rhode Island auto accident attorney could make the process of getting compensation much easier. A lawyer may assist you by:
- Investigating the accident to identify the negligent parties who caused it.
- Gathering evidence proving negligence was involved.
- Calculating approximately how much compensation you may be owed.
- Handling all negotiations with the insurance company.
Another advantage of working with a Rhode Island car accident lawyer is that most work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they recover compensation for you.
What to Do After a Rhode Island Car Accident
After a car accident, take the following steps:
- Move to a safe location away from traffic.
- Check for any injuries that require immediate attention.
- Check on the other drivers involved in the accident without confronting them in anger, even if you’re certain the accident was their fault. Avoid making any statements that suggest you caused the accident or are not injured. It’s possible you’ve sustained injuries without realizing it.
- Call 911 to report the accident and have a police officer dispatched to the scene.
- Exchange insurance and contact information with the other drivers involved in the accident. If someone tries to flee the scene, try to photograph their license plate.
- Take photos of the accident scene, your vehicle, and your injuries.
- Get the names and contact information of witnesses and consider asking if they would be willing to give a recorded statement.
- Cooperate with the police while they investigate the accident.
- See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you do not think you have sustained serious injuries.
- Consult with a Rhode Island car accident attorney to discuss your case.
Get in Touch With a Car Accident Lawyer That Helps Those In Rhode Island
Studies show that car accident victims who hire lawyers are more likely to receive fair settlements than those who handle their cases on their own. To get started, complete the Free Case Evaluation to get connected with an independent, participating attorney who subscribes to the website and takes cases in Rhode Island.