Auto Accident Law Firm of Kevin Paul Childers

Why Is It Important to Properly Document an Auto Accident?

After an auto accident, it is natural to feel overwhelmed or uncertain about what to do. Despite this, you should always take steps to document the accident by taking pictures of the accident scene, your vehicle, and any injuries. You should also write out an account of what took place. These actions are vital for the following reasons:

• It will be easier for you to be reimbursed for medical treatment.
  Soft tissue injuries can heal rapidly, and outward signs of them can fade. If your insurance company cannot see evidence of your injuries, they may try to deny you compensation for your medical treatment. To make sure you are properly reimbursed for medical bills, lost wages, and other costs, you should take pictures of your injuries and obtain copies of your medical records.
     
• You will be better able to prove the other party was at fault.
  After an accident, each party will have a different story about what happened. You should not only take pictures of the accident but also collect witnesses’ accounts of what happened. Be sure to speak to witnesses as soon as possible before their memories fade. With this photographic evidence and the witnesses’ statements, it will be easier to prove that you were not the liable party.
       
• You will be able to file a lawsuit against the negligent party.
  With evidence of your medical injuries as well as documentation of the accident, you and your personal injury attorney will be able to show that the other driver was at fault for the accident, not you. This may allow you to to collect financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

At the Auto Accident Law Firm of Kevin Paul Childers, we know that being in a car accident can change your entire life. If you would like to discuss filing a lawsuit against the party responsible for your injuries, call (703) 659-1536 to schedule a consultation in our Dale City office.

What is Pain and Suffering from Personal Injury?

In a personal injury lawsuit, the plaintiff can seek financial compensation for damage, such as injuries. One example of a physical injury is pain and suffering. Take a look at the video above to learn more about this type of damage.

Because pain is subjective, attaching a dollar amount to it can be difficult, and the amount of money awarded varies from case to case. Judges try to be fair and consider factors like medical costs and the nature of the injury.

After an auto accident, count on the Auto Accident Law Firm of Kevin Paul Childers to provide the personal injury representation you need in Prince William County. We can help you recover financial compensation for the damages inflicted by your accident. To schedule a consultation, call (703) 659-1536.

What To Expect During a Wrongful Death Trial

If you’re considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages relating to the loss of a loved one, it is important that you know what to expect from the trial process. To learn more about what will happen during the course of your lawsuit, read below:

Filing a Lawsuit
To begin the process, your attorney will file a civil lawsuit against the defendant, the person accused of causing the death of your loved one. The defense will have the option of responding to the claim and disputing your allegations.

Discovery 
Next, your attorney will exchange evidence with the defense, a process known as discovery. Each side becomes aware of the information the other side intends to use and has the chance to request depositions and interviews from the other party’s witnesses. With the help of expert witnesses and documentation, your attorney will build a case against the defendant, while his attorney attempts to do the same.

Settlement
At any point before or during the trial, you and the defendant can opt to settle out of court. In an out of court settlement, the defense will offer you a sum of money in return for agreeing to withdraw the lawsuit. You may not receive as much money as you possible could in a trial, and you and your attorney need to discuss how much money you deserve and your chances of winning in court.

Trial
If an out-of-court settlement cannot be reached, the trial will proceed. Your attorney and the defense will each present evidence and testimony from witnesses to prove that the defendant was or was not negligent in the death of your family member or spouse. When all of the evidence has been presented, the judge or jury will establish a verdict and set an amount of financial compensation that you should receive.

Filing a wrongful death lawsuit requires a skilled, experienced attorney. If you think you have grounds for a lawsuit, call the Auto Accident Law Firm of Kevin Paul Childers at (703) 659-1536 to schedule a consultation in our Woodbridge office.

Learn More About Safe Driving with Semi-Trucks and Motorcycles

An auto accident can happen to anyone, so take a moment to prepare yourself by taking a look at the resources listed below. You’ll also find great information about the civil justice system in general.

• The Insurance Information Institute provides statistics about motorcycle injuries and fatalities.
     
• If you ride a motorcycle, follow these tips to stay safe on the road.
     
• Learn about trucks’ blind spots and how to stay clear of them from this website.
        
• This article summarizes the civil justice process.

After a car accident, count on the Auto Accident Law Firm of Kevin Paul Childers to provide the legal representation you need to obtain damages in court. To schedule an appointment in our Dale City office, call (703) 659-1536.

Motorcycle Safety: 4 Things All Riders Should Know

Riding a motorcycle can be fun and exhilarating, but it comes with its own set of dangers. If you ride a motorcycle, keep these things in mind to stay safe on the road and avoid accidents:

1. Drivers do not expect motorcycles. Because motorcycles are less common than cars, drivers often do not expect to see them and may not take proper precautions to avoid you. They may not check their blind spots thoroughly enough, or they simply may not notice you in their mirrors. Either way, it is up to you to make yourself visible and try to stay safe on the road.
       
2. You are much more likely to be severely injured in an accident than a motorist. If you are involved in an accident with a car or semi, you will probably be more severely injured because you have less protection. Per mile traveled, motorcyclists are 25 times more likely to be injured in a crash. With these statistics, it is in your best interest to slow down and be aware of the road around you.
       
3. Semi-trucks have huge blind spots. Blind spots are a problem on passenger cars, but they can be even more dangerous on semi-trucks. These large vehicles cannot see the areas behind them or to the side, and motorcycles’ small size makes them even more difficult to spot. Try to avoid these areas and stay where the truck driver can see you.
       
4. Many motorcycle accidents happen at intersections. Cars turning left at an intersection often do not see motorcycles approaching and turn directly in front of them, causing accidents. To do your part to prevent these common accidents, slow down before an intersection to give cars more time to notice you.

When riding on highways and city streets, be aware of these factors to keep yourself safe. If another driver’s carelessness has led to injury in a car accident, call the Auto Accident Law Firm of Kevin Paul Childers today to discuss obtaining the compensation you need for your injuries. To reach our office, call (703) 659-1536.