You may have the safest car on the road, but you could still be involved in an automobile accident. Injury and/or death, lost wages, and property damage are all potential results of the car wrecks that happen all too frequently. If you or a loved one is involved in one, you could face years of pain, heartache, and financial loss. It would be wise to consult with a personal injury attorney to avoid future problems.

Insurance companies can be your biggest headache after a wreck. Sometimes they will try to compensate you with the lowest amount possible, so an attorney can help you deal with them.

An attorney, specializing in personal injury law, or tort law, can act as a mediator between you and insurance companies or the parties involved. Interview attorneys before you hire one. You may want to ask the following questions:

• Do you charge any fees upfront?

• What percentage of the money will you keep if you win my case?

• What if you don't win? How will you be paid?

• How often, and in what manner, will you communicate with me concerning my case? Phone calls, letters, emails?

• Will you settle out of court?

• How long do you expect this to take?

Many attorneys offer a free first-time consultation; be sure to ask when you call to make an appointment.

Top Statute of Limitations

If you are involved in a serious car wreck, it may be wise to contact an attorney immediately. Mississippi imposes a statute of limitations, a time limit, on claims. This limit could be as short as one year, or as long as three. If the time period runs out, you cannot be compensated for your losses.

Top Do I Need an Attorney?

With a minor accident, you may not need an attorney, but with a major one there are several things to consider. An experienced attorney can:

• Possibly get you a better settlement from the insurance company than you can do on your own.

• Represent you before a jury.

• Provide objective mediation for you. They can look at the case as a whole and determine if the payout is right, or too little, and advise you of the steps you should take.

• Provide a team to work on your case. This team may consist of investigators, consultants, and other attorneys.

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