How much will it cost me to talk with an attorney?
Our initial consultation is free of charge. You can meet with an attorney to discuss your case and the costs associated with it.
What are your fees after an initial consultation?
For most personal injury cases, we charge a contingency fee of 33.3% of the entire settlement or amount recovered; or 40% of the entire settlement or amount recovered if a lawsuit is filed and litigation is initiated. Additionally, we will advance any expenses on your behalf, such as charges for police reports, long distance telephone calls, copying, medical records, transcripts, deposition fees, etc. Those costs advanced are repaid to us when the case settles or is resolved.
How do I find a doctor if I have no health insurance?
If you do not have health insurance coverage, or are dissatisfied with your HMO providers, we can help you find a doctor who will treat you and wait for payment until your case settles, such as on a "lien."
How long does it take to resolve a personal injury case?
The length of time it takes to settle your case depends on several factors, particularly the length of treatment you need. We do not begin the settlement process until you have been released from treatment.
How do I get my car fixed if I am not at fault for the accident?
If your car can be repaired, the other driver's insurance company will submit a check to you for reimbursement of the repair charges. If the claim is through your own car insurance company (your collision coverage), the reimbursement will be made for the amount of the repair charges, less your deductible. If the damage is too costly to repair compared to the value of your car (i.e. "totaled"), the insurance company may choose to buy your car for its "actual cash value." (For help in determining your car's value go to the Kelley Blue Book site, www.kbb.com) As part of your personal injury claim, we will help you resolve your property damage and charge no fee to do so.
What is "UM" or "UIM" coverage?
"UM" is Uninsured Motorist coverage, which covers you in the event you are injured by an uninsured motorist. "UIM" is Underinsured Motorist coverage, which covers you in the event you are injured by a motorist with insufficient insurance. Neither UM nor UIM covers the repairs to your vehicle in the event you are hit by such a motorist. (For more, check out Kevin Chapman's article, "The Unforeseen Road Hazard: The Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist.")
SOME THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Do you know if your health insurance company has subrogation or reimbursements rights if you are injured in an accident? Do you have to pay your health insurance company back?
Were you injured on the job? If so, do you know that workers' compensation claims a lien for medical expenses and/or lost wages paid to you?
Are you entitled to make a claim on your own car insurance policy, including the uninsured motorist coverage or underinsured motorist coverage?
Do you have "med-pay" or "medical expenses" coverage on your auto insurance policy?
Do you know what the statute of limitations are to file a lawsuit in Arizona?
Do you know that in certain circumstances a conservatorship must be established if a minor child (younger than 18 years old) receives settlement money from an accident?
Do you know if you should use your own car insurance to get your car repaired?
If you do not know the answers to these and other questions, please contact us. If needed, we will be happy to meet with you at no charge to answer any such questions you may have.
