Be Open With Your Personal Injury Lawyer
Auto accidents are tough enough to deal with, so don't make the mistake of withholding information from your lawyer. It's harmful to your case and will only create more problems. Read on, and find out why it's vital that your lawyer know everything and how your communications are protected.
When In Doubt, Speak Up
When it comes to what to tell your lawyer, err on the side of saying far too much rather than not enough. You may not realize how the information you are withholding could benefit your case. To give you a better idea of what to tell your personal injury lawyer, take a look at the below ideas to share:
- Everything about the accident you can recall, even if you think it makes you look bad. To represent you, your lawyer needs to know the facts and those facts should not be shaded by embarrassment or uncertainty. The only way your lawyer can fight for you is to do so with as much info as you can provide. For instance, if you think you might have been speeding at the time of the accident, let the lawyer know.
- Your current accident injuries are only the beginning. Tell your lawyer about any past auto accidents and medical problems. Don't limit the information you reveal to your lawyer because the other driver's insurer will be asking about those things as well.
- If you have been in past accidents, have been issued tickets for driving violations, or have any criminal history whatsoever, let the lawyer know. They are not there to judge, but they need to know what might be dug up by the at-fault driver's side.
- If you have repossessions, home foreclosures, or bankruptcies in your past, let your personal injury lawyer know about it upfront. You never know what the other side could use to make you look bad.
Don't Worry – It's Confidential
Many accident victims are more willing to be honest with their attorney when they know the lawyer cannot reveal information to anyone. What you say to your lawyer stays between you, them, and their legal team members. Even a judge cannot compel your lawyer to reveal confidential information from a client.
Some victims are surprised at the lengths the insurer will go to in an attempt to avoid paying on a claim. Medical costs, vehicle repairs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other forms of damage can add up to thousands of dollars, and they will try to reduce their liability and reduce your damage claims. When you are forthcoming, you are helping your lawyer combat those moves. Speak to a personal injury lawyer to find out more.
